The respiratory system Flashcards
inhalation
the process of breathing in oxygen to help produce energy
exhalation
the process of breathing out to expel carbon dioxide
describe the composition of air we breathe
the air we inhale is the same as the air we exhale, however the gas content of the air changes whilst it is in our lungs
what is the main function of the respiratory system during inhalation?
to increase the size of the lungs to allow air to flow in
describe the mechanics of inhalation
-the diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract
-the diaphragm flattens and pulls the bottom of the lungs down
-the intercostal muscles pull the ribs and lungs outwards
-the lungs increase in size and the air pressure inside the lungs reduces
-this makes the air pressure outside of the body higher than the air pressure inside of the body
-air travels from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure, so air is drawn into the lungs
what is the main function of the respiratory system during exhalation?
to decrease the size of the lungs to allow air to flow out
describe the mechanics of exhalation
-the diaphragm and intercostal muscles relax
-the diaphragm returns to its dome shape
-the intercostal muscles allow the ribs and lungs to move inwards
-the lungs reduce in size and the air pressure inside the lungs increases
-this makes the air pressure inside of the body higher than the air pressure outside of the body
-air travels from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure, so air leaves the lungs
how is the mechanics of inhalation effected during exercise?
during exercise extra muscles are used to make the chest even bigger, this allows even more air to be drawn in, this is because the working muscles need more oxygen during exercise
how is the mechanics of exhalation effected during exercise?
extra muscles are used to force air out, this allows you to breath more frequently and more deeply, this is because more carbon dioxide is created and needs to be exhaled
