Mechanics of Breathing Lecture Notes

A set of flashcards covering key concepts from the Mechanics of Breathing lecture notes.

What are the four main functions of the respiratory system?

Exchange of gases, regulation of body pH, protection from pathogens, and vocalization.

What is the primary concept that explains bulk flow in the respiratory system?

Flow occurs from regions of higher pressure to lower pressure.

What is the order of gas exchanges in respiration?

Atmosphere to Lung (ventilation), Lung to Blood, Blood to Cells.

What structure contracts to initiate inspiration?

The diaphragm.

What happens during expiration to decrease the volume of the thoracic cavity?

The diaphragm relaxes and the rib cage moves downward.

What is Boyle's Law and how does it relate to ventilation?

It states that pressure and volume of a gas are inversely related, impacting lung volume changes during breathing.

How is resistance to airflow in the respiratory system primarily affected?

By the diameter of the airways.

What role does surfactant play in the alveoli?

Surfactant reduces surface tension, enhancing lung compliance.

What happens during the respiratory cycle?

One inspiration followed by one expiration.

Define tidal volume (VT).

The amount of air that moves in and out during a respiratory cycle.

What is the purpose of the pleural fluid?

To lower friction between pleural membranes and adhere lungs to the thoracic wall.

How does bronchoconstriction affect airway resistance?

It increases airway resistance.

What can cause a pneumothorax?

When the sealed pleural cavity is opened to the atmosphere.

What is the primary factor affecting airway resistance?

Diameter of airways.

What is the effect of increased CO₂ levels in the bronchioles?

Bronchiole dilation occurs.

What is the normal respiratory rate in adults?

12-20 breaths per minute.

What characterizes obstructive lung diseases?

Inflammation and constriction of airways, affecting airflow.

What is the Vital Capacity?

The maximum volume of air that can be moved in and out during one breath.

What occurs to alveloar gas exchange with increased alveolar ventilation?

Alveolar Po₂ increases while Pco₂ decreases.