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The Respiratory System

Structure of the airways and lungs

  • 3 things to know
  • A2 2

Overview

The route of air to the alveoli, the nasal cavity, larynx, epiglottis, trachea, bronchi and bronchioles, the lobes, pleura, diaphragm and intercostals, surfactant, dead space and mouth breathing.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

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Key term

Trace the route air takes from the nose to the alveoli.

Key term

What does the nasal cavity do to incoming air?

Key term

What are the roles of the larynx and the epiglottis?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    Trace the route air takes from the nose to the alveoli.

    Model answer

    Air passes through the nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx and trachea. The trachea divides into two bronchi, which branch into bronchioles ending in the alveoli.

  2. 2

    What does the nasal cavity do to incoming air?

    Model answer

    The nasal cavity warms and moistens incoming air. Hairs and mucus in the nose filter out dust and microorganisms.

  3. 3

    What are the roles of the larynx and the epiglottis?

    Model answer

    The larynx is the voice box at the top of the trachea. The epiglottis closes over the larynx during swallowing to stop food entering the airway.

  4. 4

    Why does the trachea contain C-shaped rings of cartilage?

    Model answer

    The cartilage rings hold the trachea open as air pressure changes during breathing. The open back of each ring lets the oesophagus expand when food is swallowed.

  5. 5

    How is the lining of the trachea adapted to protect the lungs?

    Model answer

    Goblet cells in the lining secrete mucus that traps dust and microorganisms. Cilia beat to sweep the mucus up towards the throat.

  6. 6

    Compare the structure of the bronchi and the bronchioles.

    Model answer

    The bronchi are wide tubes supported by cartilage, one entering each lung. The bronchioles are much narrower branches with smooth muscle walls and no cartilage.

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AThe target heart rate is about 168 bpm.
BMaximum heart rate is 220 − 18 = 202 bpm.
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Inspiration means breathing air into the lungs.
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