C4 - Why do we breathe? Flashcards
(63 cards)
What is the starting point of the respiratory tract?
Nasal cavity
The respiratory tract ends at the alveoli.
What are the main components of the lungs?
Lobes, bronchi, alveoli
The lungs consist of various structures that facilitate gas exchange.
What are the components of the respiratory membrane?
Alveolar epithelium, basement membrane, capillary endothelium
These components are essential for efficient gas exchange.
What role does the thoracic wall play in respiration?
Houses the lungs, aids in lung expansion and contraction
The thoracic wall and pleura create a pressure gradient necessary for breathing.
How does contraction of respiratory muscles affect thoracic volume?
Increases thoracic volume during inhalation, decreases during exhalation
This change in volume is crucial for air movement in and out of the lungs.
What happens to alveolar pressure during inhalation?
Decreases
This decrease allows air to flow into the lungs.
How do surfactant and pleural pressure prevent lung collapse?
Surfactant reduces surface tension, pleural pressure keeps lungs expanded
Both factors are vital for maintaining lung integrity.
What is the mechanism of gas exchange in the lungs?
Diffusion of O2 and CO2 across the alveolar membrane
Gas exchange is driven by partial pressure differences.
Define alveolar ventilation.
Volume of air that reaches the alveoli per minute
It is a critical measure of effective breathing.
What are the three regions of the pharynx?
- Nasopharynx
- Oropharynx
- Laryngopharynx
Each region has distinct anatomical features and functions.
What are the three sets of tonsils found in the pharynx?
- Palatine tonsils
- Pharyngeal tonsils (adenoids)
- Lingual tonsils
These tonsils play a role in immune function.
What is the function of the larynx?
Protects the airway during swallowing, produces sound
The larynx is essential for phonation and airway protection.
What are the primary bronchi?
The first branches of the trachea that lead to each lung
They bifurcate at the carina.
What is the hilum of the lung?
The area where bronchi, nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatics enter or exit the lungs
It is a critical anatomical landmark.
What does pleural fluid do?
Acts as a lubricant and helps hold the pleura together
This fluid is essential for lung movement during respiration.
What occurs during a pneumothorax?
The lung collapses due to air entering the pleural cavity
This condition disrupts normal lung function.
What happens to the diaphragm during inhalation?
Contracts and flattens
This increases the thoracic cavity volume, allowing air to enter the lungs.
What is the effect of the diaphragm relaxing?
It curves upward, decreasing thoracic volume and pushing air out
This is part of the normal breathing cycle.
What is the role of cartilage in the bronchial tree?
Maintains a patent airway
Cartilage rings prevent airway collapse.
How high do the lungs extend towards the neck?
About 2.5 cm above the clavicle
This is important for understanding lung anatomy.
Why are the left and right lungs not equal in size?
The heart occupies space on the left side, making the left lung smaller
The right lung may appear shorter due to liver positioning.
What epithelium type changes from the trachea to the alveoli?
Pseudostratified ciliated epithelium to simple squamous epithelium
This change facilitates gas exchange.
What is the primary function of the nasal cavity?
Warms and humidifies air before it enters the lungs
This process enhances gas exchange efficiency.
What triggers the laryngeal reflex?
Entry of substances other than air into the larynx
This reflex causes coughing to protect the airway.
