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The Respiratory System

Structure of the airways and alveoli

  • 3 things to know
  • Component 1

Overview

The pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles and alveoli, the features that make alveoli efficient, moisture and branching, the bronchioles in exercise, asthma, and how the respiratory and cardiovascular systems supply a working muscle.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

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Key term

Name three features that make the alveoli efficient at gas exchange.

Key term

In order, which structures does air pass through between the pharynx and the alveoli?

Key term

What is the pharynx, and what does it carry?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    In order, which structures does air pass through between the pharynx and the alveoli?

    Model answer

    Air passes from the pharynx into the larynx and down the trachea. The air then enters a bronchus, the bronchioles and finally the alveoli.

  2. 2

    What is the pharynx, and what does it carry?

    Model answer

    The pharynx is the throat, the passage behind the nose and mouth. The pharynx carries air towards the larynx and food towards the oesophagus.

  3. 3

    What is the function of the larynx?

    Model answer

    The larynx is the voice box, containing the vocal cords. The epiglottis closes over the larynx during swallowing so food cannot enter the trachea.

  4. 4

    How is the trachea adapted to keep air flowing to the lungs?

    Model answer

    C-shaped rings of cartilage hold the trachea open during breathing. Mucus and ciliated cells trap dust and sweep it away from the lungs.

  5. 5

    What are the bronchi?

    Model answer

    The bronchi are the two branches of the trachea, one entering each lung. Cartilage supports the bronchi and keeps them open.

  6. 6

    How do bronchioles differ from bronchi?

    Model answer

    Bronchioles are much smaller airways that lead from the bronchi towards the alveoli. Bronchioles lack cartilage and have smooth muscle, so they can widen or narrow.

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