The mammalian gas exchange system Flashcards
(15 cards)
Explain the structure and function of cartilage in the trachea
STRUCTURE:
* C-shaped rings of cartilage
FUNCTION:
* Keep the airways open
* The rings are incomplete so that the trachea can bend when food moves down the oesophagus
Explain the function of ciliated epithelial cells in the trachea
- Goblet cells between the epithelium which secrete mucus which traps dust and bacteria
- Cilia which move the mucus up the trachea to remove it from the gas exchange system
Explain the structure and function of the cartilage in the bronchus
the bronchus are the two branches that lead out of the trachea
STRUCTURE:
* Irregular blocks of cartilage
FUNCTION:
* Keeps the airways open
Explain the structure and function of the ciliated epithelial cells in the bronchus
STRUCTURE:
* Elastic fibres beneath the epithelial cells
FUNCTION:
* Goblet cells secrete mucus which traps dust and bacteria
* Cilia move the mucus up the trachea to remove it from the gas exchange system
Do the bronchioles contain cartilage?
bronchioles are the tiny branches that the bronchi branch off into
NO
Do bronhcus contain cartilage
YES
What holds open the bronchioles?
Smooth muscle
What is the function of the smooth muscle in the bronchioles?
- Holds the airways open in the bronchioles
- Contracts and relaxes to control the diameter of the airways
The bronchioles are lined with a thin layer of [blank] which make [blank] possible
- epithelial tissue
- some gas exchange
Do alveoli contain cartilage?
NO
Do alveoli have epithelial tissue
YES
How do the squamous epithelial tissues make the alveoli an efficient gas exchange system?
A layer of thin squamous epithelial cells which provide a short diffusion pathway to increase the rate and efficiency of gas exchange
Do alveoli contain elastic fibres?
YES
What do the elastic fibres do in the alveoli?
- Stretch and recoil to help with the ventilation of the alveoli and move air out of them.
What covers the alveoli to prevent them from collapsing?
Lung surfactant
