3.1.1 Exchange surfaces – The structure of the breathing system Flashcards
(13 cards)
List the order of structures that air will travel through as it is inhaled through the breathing system.
Mouth trachea bronchi bronchioles alveoli
What are the singular terms for alveoli and bronchi?
Alveoli – alveolus (singular)
Bronchi – bronchus (singular)
What is the function of cartilage in the breathing system?
It holds the airways open, preventing their collapse during inspiration.
Which 2 structures of the breathing system contain cartilage and how are they arranged?
- Trachea in C-shaped rings
- Bronchi in irregular blocks
What is the function of smooth muscle in the breathing system?
The smooth muscle can contract and constrict the airways making them narrower. This controls the flow of air into and from the alveoli.
Which 3 structures contain smooth muscle?
Trachea, bronchi, bronchioles
What are the functions of the elastic fibres in the breathing system?
The elastic fibres stretch as air moves in and recoils to force air out. They prevent the alveoli from bursting.
Which 2 structures contain elastic fibres?
Bronchioles and alveoli
What is the function of goblet cells?
Goblet cells secrete mucus which trap pathogens that enter the breathing system.
What is the function of ciliated epithelium?
The cells line the breathing system and the cilia waft the mucus to the top of the trachea to be swallowed.
Which 3 structures contain ciliated epithelium and goblet cells?
Trachea, bronchi and larger bronchioles.
Which structure of the breathing system is made from squamous epithelium?
The alveolus/alveoli
How does the structure of squamous epithelium allow for gas exchange to take place at the alveolus?
The cells are flattened and very thin, giving a short diffusion distance for gases to travel.
