The Lungs Flashcards
What is the function of the trachea?
Connect mouth and nose to lungs
What is the function of the ribs?
. Protect lungs
. Moves to increase volume
What is the function of intercostal muscles?
Contract and relax to move ribs
What is the function of the bronchus?
Connect trachea to bronchioles
What is the function of alveoli?
Site of gas exchange
What is the function of bronchioles?
Connect bronchus to alveoli
What is the function of the diaphragm?
Contract and relax to change volume of lungs
What is gas exchange?
Supplying body cells with oxygen for respiration
And removing carbon dioxide from the blood
Occurs in the lungs
What is ventilation?
Breathing - moving air into and out of the lungs (exhaling)
What is the respiratory system?
The system of organs and structures in which gas exchange takes place
How are alveoli adapted for quick diffusion?
Good blood supply - maintains steep concentration gradient
Thin walls - shorter distance for gases to travel
Why does the alveolus have a moist surface area?
Gases dissolve more easily
What is emphysema?
A chronic (long-term) obstructive pulmonary (lungs) disease
How does emphysema occur?
Alveoli becomes inflamed and damaged
So, the walls of the alveoli break down due to loss of surface area and elasticity
What are the symptoms of emphysema?
. Shortness of breath
. Tiredness
. Trouble coughing
