Summative Test Part A Flashcards
Chap 3.2, 3.3, 3.4
Describe the process of gas exchange in humans.
Oxygen (O₂) diffuses from the alveoli into deoxygenated blood, while carbon dioxide (CO₂) diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled.
Explain the composition of inhaled and exhaled air.
Inhaled air consists of approximately 21% O₂ and 0.04% CO₂, while exhaled air contains about 16% O₂ and 4% CO₂.
Define the primary functions of the respiratory system.
The respiratory system’s primary functions include gas exchange (providing O₂ and removing CO₂), smelling (olfaction), speaking, filtering air, and warming & moistening air.
How do alveoli facilitate gas exchange?
Alveoli are tiny air sacs with thin, moist walls that are one cell thick, allowing for rapid diffusion of gases and are surrounded by capillaries for efficient gas transfer.
What role do goblet cells and cilia play in the respiratory system?
Goblet cells produce mucus to trap particles and microorganisms, while cilia move the mucus up to the throat for swallowing or expulsion.
Describe the total lung capacity in adults.
The total lung capacity (TLC) in adults is approximately 5 liters.
What is tidal volume and its significance?
Tidal volume is the amount of air inhaled or exhaled at rest, approximately 0.5 liters, and is significant for understanding normal breathing patterns.
Explain vital capacity and its importance in respiratory health.
Vital capacity is the maximum amount of air that can be inhaled or exhaled during forced breathing, important for assessing lung function and respiratory health.
How does the respiratory system filter air?
The respiratory system filters air through mucus that traps particles, and cilia that push the mucus to the throat for swallowing or expulsion.
What is the significance of warming and moistening air in the respiratory system?
Warming and moistening air helps prevent respiratory tissue damage and aids in efficient gas exchange.
Define Residual Volume.
Air remaining in the lungs after full exhalation.
Describe the Ventilation Rate at rest.
Approximately 15 breaths per minute.
Explain the function of a Spirometer.
It measures lung volume and breathing rate.
Identify the cause of Asthma.
An allergic reaction to airborne triggers such as pollen, dust, and pet fur.
List the symptoms of Asthma.
Wheezing and shortness of breath due to bronchiole constriction and inflammation.
What is the treatment for Asthma?
Inhalers (bronchodilators) that relax airway muscles.
Describe the cause of Emphysema.
Long-term exposure to irritants like smoking and chemicals.
What are the effects of Emphysema?
Damage to alveoli leading to reduced lung surface area, breathlessness, and fatigue.
Identify the cause of Lung Cancer.
Exposure to carcinogens such as smoking, asbestos, and smog.
Explain the effects of Lung Cancer.
Tumors in bronchi/bronchioles leading to impaired function, blood in mucus, and pain.
Describe the cause of Pneumonia.
Infection by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
What are the effects of Pneumonia?
Fluid in alveoli leading to reduced gas exchange, fever, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.
Explain the mechanism of inhalation.
The diaphragm contracts and flattens, intercostal muscles contract, ribs move up and out, increasing chest cavity volume and decreasing air pressure, causing air to rush in.
Describe the mechanism of exhalation.
The diaphragm relaxes to a dome shape, intercostal muscles relax, ribs move down and in, decreasing chest cavity volume and increasing air pressure, pushing air out.
