Biology Chapter 10: The Respiratory System
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Questions and Answers

What is one of the primary functions of the respiratory system?

  • Pumping blood throughout the body
  • Exchanging carbon dioxide and oxygen (correct)
  • Regulating blood pressure
  • Producing digestive enzymes

Where does gas exchange occur in the respiratory system?

  • At the alveoli (correct)
  • In the nasal passages
  • In the trachea
  • In the bronchi

How does air get processed in the nasal passages?

  • It is completely expelled from the lungs.
  • It is dried and filtered through muscle lining.
  • It is moistened and warmed by mucus and blood vessels. (correct)
  • It is cooled and heated before entering the trachea.

What occurs when the vocal cords are stretched tighter?

<p>A higher pitched voice is produced. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the trachea during heavy breathing?

<p>Smooth muscle allows it to widen. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of long-term smoking on the respiratory system?

<p>Paralysis of cilia in the trachea (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What structure prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing?

<p>Epiglottis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why do men typically have deeper voices after puberty?

<p>Their vocal cords become longer. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the lubricating fluid between pleural membranes play in respiration?

<p>It facilitates inhalation and exhalation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following percentages represents the amount of carbon dioxide that is bound to hemoglobin?

<p>23% (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the brain regulate the breathing rate in response to increased carbon dioxide levels?

<p>It enhances stimulation of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which condition does pneumonia inhibit gas exchange in the alveoli?

<p>Excess fluids accumulate due to infection. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of receptors in the carotid and aortic bodies are sensitive to low oxygen levels?

<p>Oxygen sensors. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of tuberculosis?

<p>Coughing up blood. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What causes the diaphragm to return to its domed shape during exhalation?

<p>Passive recoil of the diaphragm. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of oxygen is transported dissolved in blood plasma?

<p>2% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of cilia and mucus in the respiratory tract?

<p>They trap and remove foreign particles and pathogens. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the bronchioles during an asthma attack?

<p>They constrict and produce increased mucus. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which structure is involved in gas exchange within the lungs?

<p>Alveoli (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the leading cause of emphysema?

<p>Cigarette smoking. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the lungs during inhalation?

<p>Increased volume and decreased pressure. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many alveoli are estimated to be in both lungs combined?

<p>300 million (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What causes the heart to work harder in patients with emphysema?

<p>Decreased gas exchange due to destroyed alveoli. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do abdominal muscles play during active exhalation?

<p>They contract to push the diaphragm upwards. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the nasal passages in the respiratory system?

<p>To filter and warm the air (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What effect does smoking have on the cilia in the trachea?

<p>It paralyzes the cilia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the epiglottis function during the swallowing reflex?

<p>It prevents food from entering the trachea. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the smooth muscle in the trachea allow during heavy breathing?

<p>It widens the trachea. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement describes the function of hemoglobin in the respiratory process?

<p>It binds to oxygen for transport in the blood. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do vocal cords contribute to the pitch of sound?

<p>Stretched cords result in a higher pitched voice. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of gas exchange occurring specifically at the alveoli?

<p>It facilitates the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which function is influenced by the resonating chambers found in the upper respiratory tract?

<p>Modulating voice quality (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during an asthma attack that affects breathing?

<p>Smooth muscles in the bronchioles constrict and increase mucus production. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What component is notably absent in bronchioles that is present in the bronchi?

<p>Cartilage (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement most accurately describes the function of inhalers for asthma patients?

<p>They widen the bronchioles to facilitate breathing. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does emphysema primarily affect lung function?

<p>It leads to the deterioration of alveoli, reducing gas exchange efficiency. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT mentioned as a potential trigger for asthma attacks?

<p>High altitude (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason that smoking is linked to emphysema?

<p>It leads to the destruction of alveoli over time. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the lungs during exhalation when abdominal muscles contract?

<p>They help push the diaphragm upwards further, decreasing volume. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one effect of smoking on white blood cells in the respiratory tract?

<p>It kills white blood cells, increasing infection risk. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What triggers the stimulation of the diaphragm for inhalation?

<p>Signal from the brain every 4-5 seconds (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of carbon dioxide is transported in the form of plasma bicarbonate?

<p>70% (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which structure in the body monitors hydrogen ions in the spinal fluid for breathing regulation?

<p>Medulla oblongata (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during exhalation as a result of muscle relaxation?

<p>Recoil of the ribs to the previous shape (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the body respond to decreased oxygen levels according to the information provided?

<p>Breathing becomes faster and deeper (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consequence of pneumonia on alveoli?

<p>Secretion of excess fluids (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the brain have over the muscles involved in breathing?

<p>Controls muscle contraction through conscious thought (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which respiratory condition involves serious damage to lung tissue and is often fatal without treatment?

<p>Tuberculosis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Respiratory System Function

Exchanges oxygen and carbon dioxide, and produces sounds for speech.

Oxygen Pathway

Inhaled air travels from the nose/mouth to lungs, diffuses into the bloodstream, and is carried to the body's tissues for cellular respiration.

Upper Respiratory Tract Parts

Includes the nasal passages, responsible for filtering, warming, and moistening inhaled air.

Nasal Passages Function

Warms, moistens, and filters inhaled air. Has smell receptors.

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Larynx Role

Voice box; contains vocal cords, which vibrate to produce sound during speech.

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Trachea Function

A tube that carries air to and from the lungs. Cartilage keeps it open.

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Epiglottis

Cartilage flap that prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing.

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Smoking Effect on Trachea

Damages cilia in trachea, causing smoker's cough; reduces ability of air passage.

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Pleural Membranes

Two membranes lining the thoracic cavity and the outside of the lungs, separated by lubricating fluid to facilitate smooth breathing.

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Oxygen Transport

Oxygen is primarily bound to hemoglobin (98%) and to a lesser extent dissolved in blood plasma (2%).

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Carbon Dioxide Transport

Carbon dioxide is transported in the blood as dissolved gas (7%), bound to hemoglobin (23%), and primarily as bicarbonate ions (70%).

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Respiratory Center (Medulla Oblongata)

Part of the brain that controls basic breathing patterns by stimulating diaphragm and intercostal muscles.

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Breathing Regulation (Chemical)

The medulla oblongata monitors carbon dioxide (hydrogen ions) levels in spinal fluid. Higher levels trigger faster/deeper breathing.

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Pneumonia

Inflammation of the lungs, often caused by bacterial or viral infections, leading to fluid buildup in the alveoli and impaired gas exchange.

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Tuberculosis

A bacterial infection damaging the lungs and associated with scarring, coughing, potential blood coughing, and potentially fatal without treatment.

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Breathing Control (Conscious)

The brain can also consciously adjust the breathing rate, utilizing skeletal muscles (diaphragm and intercostals).

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Smoker's Respiratory Vulnerability

Smoking damages white blood cells and cilia in the respiratory tract, making smokers more susceptible to infections.

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Bronchi Structure

Bronchi are cartilage-lined airways containing cilia and mucus for filtering air, and smooth muscle for flexibility.

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Bronchioles

Bronchi branch into smaller airways called bronchioles, which lack cartilage and have smooth muscle.

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Asthma Attack

During an asthma attack, bronchiole smooth muscles constrict, mucus production increases, and breathing becomes difficult. Triggers include allergens and irritants.

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Alveoli Function

Alveoli are tiny sacs in the lungs where gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide) occurs.

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Emphysema Cause

Emphysema involves damaged alveoli, reducing gas exchange and making breathing difficult; smoking is a major cause.

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Inhalation

Breathing in: the diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract, expanding the lungs and drawing air inside.

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Exhalation

Breathing out: the muscles relax, the lungs recoil and push air out.

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Why is the respiratory system important?

The respiratory system is crucial for taking in oxygen, which our cells need to function, and expelling carbon dioxide, a waste product of cellular processes.

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How do lungs get oxygen?

Oxygen travels through the nasal passages, pharynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and finally reaches the tiny air sacs in the lungs called alveoli.

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What's the role of alveoli?

Alveoli are the site of gas exchange. Oxygen from inhaled air diffuses into tiny blood vessels surrounding the alveoli, while carbon dioxide from blood diffuses into the alveoli to be exhaled.

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What is the larynx?

The larynx, or voice box, contains vocal cords that vibrate to produce sound when air passes through them.

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How does the trachea work?

The trachea, or windpipe, is a tube that carries air to and from the lungs. Its cartilage rings keep it open even during forceful breathing.

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What is the effect of smoking on the trachea?

Smoking damages the tiny hairs (cilia) in the trachea, making it harder to clear mucus and debris, leading to smoker's cough.

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What happens during inhaling?

During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and flattens, expanding the chest cavity, causing air to rush into the lungs.

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What happens during exhaling?

During exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes, returning to its dome shape, and air is pushed out of the lungs.

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Cilia and Mucus in Bronchi

Cilia are tiny hair-like structures that sweep mucus and debris out of the airways, while mucus traps particles and pathogens. Both are crucial for protecting lungs from foreign substances.

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Bronchiole vs. Bronchi

Bronchi are larger airways that carry air to the lungs and have cartilage rings for support. Bronchioles are smaller branches of bronchi that lack cartilage and have more smooth muscle to regulate airflow.

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What happens during an Asthma Attack?

Airways constrict because smooth muscles in the bronchioles tighten, and mucus production increases, both of which make it difficult to breathe.

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Alveoli and Gas Exchange

Tiny air sacs called alveoli are where oxygen from inhaled air diffuses into the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide from the blood diffuses into the alveoli to be exhaled.

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Emphysema: Damaged Alveoli

Emphysema is a lung disease where alveoli break down, leading to reduced gas exchange and making breathing difficult. It makes your heart work harder to deliver oxygen.

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Inhalation: Breathing In

When you inhale, the diaphragm contracts (flattens) and the rib cage expands, increasing lung volume and drawing air in.

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Exhalation: Breathing Out

When you exhale, the diaphragm relaxes (returns to its dome shape) and the rib cage recoils, decreasing lung volume and forcing air out.

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Active Exhalation vs. Passive Exhalation

Passive exhalation is simply the relaxation of muscles after inhaling, while active exhalation involves the contraction of abdominal and internal intercostal muscles, pushing air out more forcefully.

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Respiratory Control Center

Located in the medulla oblongata in the brain, it controls the basic rhythm of breathing by sending signals to the diaphragm and intercostal muscles.

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Chemical Regulation of Breathing

Special sensors in the brain and blood vessels detect changes in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. Increased CO2 triggers faster and deeper breathing to expel more CO2.

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Conscious Breathing Control

Even though the brain controls breathing automatically, we can consciously adjust our breathing rate, such as when we hold our breath or take deep breaths.

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Study Notes

Chapter 10: The Respiratory System

  • The respiratory system's functions include exchanging carbon dioxide and oxygen, and producing noises (speech).

Respiratory System Components

  • Upper Respiratory Tract:

    • Nose: Passageway for air
    • Mouth: Passageway for air and food
    • Epiglottis: Covers larynx during swallowing.
    • Nasal Cavity: Filters, warms, and moistens air.
    • Pharynx (Throat): Common passageway for air, food, and liquid.
    • Larynx (Voice Box): Produces sound
    • Trachea (Windpipe): Main airway.

  • Lower Respiratory Tract:

    • Pleural Membranes: Cover the lungs and line the chest cavity.
    • Lungs: Organ of gas exchange.
    • Intercostal Muscles: Move the ribs during respiration.
    • Ribs: Support the lungs & facilitate breathing
    • Diaphragm: Skeletal muscle of respiration.
    • Bronchi: Branching airways.
    • Alveoli: Air sacs for gas exchange.

Path of Oxygen

  • Oxygen inhaled enters the body through the mouth or nose → pharynx → trachea → bronchi → bronchioles → alveoli in lungs.
  • Oxygen diffuses into blood plasma in capillaries surrounding alveoli.
  • Oxygen binds to hemoglobin, then transported in blood vessels.
  • Oxygen is transported into blood plasma in capillaries throughout the body.
  • Oxygen diffuses into cells, then diffuses to mitochondria for aerobic respiration.
  • Carbon dioxide travels in the opposite direction.
  • Gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide) occurs only in alveoli.

Upper Respiratory Tract

  • Sinus: Air cavities within the skull's bones.
  • Nasal Cavity: Air passage
  • External Nose: Visible part of the nasal cavity.
  • Nostril: Opening into the nasal cavity.
  • Tongue: Part of the mouth.
  • Larynx: Portion of the upper respiratory tract.
  • Esophagus: Food tube, passes behind the trachea.
  • Trachea: Windpipe, connects larynx to bronchi.
  • Glottis and Epiglottis: Control passage for food and air.

Nasal Passages

  • Passageway for respiration.
  • Receptors for smell (taste).
  • Collects foreign material (dirt and bacteria) in mucus.
  • Cilia moves material to pharynx for expulsion or swallowing.
  • Moistens and warms air before it reaches the lungs.
  • Resonating chamber for voice quality.

Lower Respiratory Tract

  • Includes the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli.

Larynx

  • Epiglottis: Covers trachea during swallowing.
  • Vocal cords vibrate when air passes through the narrow glottis to produce sounds (like speech).
  • Vocal cord tension determines pitch.
  • Larynx size impacts deeper voice tone in males after puberty due to increased size.
  • Laryngitis: Inflamed larynx; vocal cords may not vibrate correctly.

Trachea

  • Transports air to and from the lungs.
  • Supported by cartilage rings to maintain shape.
  • Smooth muscle allows adjustment (wider/narrower) for breathing/coughing, allowing adjustments in air pressure.

Smoking and Infections

  • Smoking paralyzes cilia in trachea, leading to smoker's cough. Smoking also kills white blood cells in the respiratory tract and causes cilia and white blood cell death, making smokers more vulnerable to respiratory tract infections.

Bronchi/Bronchioles

  • Bronchi are cartilage-supported tubes branching off the trachea.
  • Bronchioles are smaller tubes branching from the bronchi (lack cartilage) and have smooth muscle
  • Cilia and mucus are present in bronchioles and bronchi helping remove debris.

Asthma

  • Characterised by bronchioles constricting and excessive mucus production. Triggers can include allergens, pollution, stress, and respiratory infections
  • Attacks can be fatal, and sufferers require inhalers to open the airways.

Gas Exchange in Alveoli

  • Alveoli are small air sacs in the lungs.
  • Bronchioles end in several alveoli.
  • Lungs have millions of alveoli with a large surface area for efficient gas exchange.
  • Alveoli have a single cell layer with pulmonary capillaries (2 layers) for efficient diffusion (air and blood).

Gas Exchange: Capillaries and Alveoli

  • Gas exchange occurs between the pulmonary capillaries and alveoli, facilitated by the single-celled walls.

Emphysema

  • Alveolar deterioration over time.
  • Reduced gas exchange makes breathing difficult.
  • Heart works harder to circulate less oxygen in the blood.
  • Emphysema can be life-threatening. Smoking is a major reason, but frequent respiratory infections and genetics are also contributing factors.

Breathing (Inhalation/Exhalation)

  • Inhalation: External intercostal muscles and diaphragm contract expanding lungs and lowering air pressure.
  • Exhalation: Muscles relax, rib cage and diaphragm recoil. Increased air pressure pushes air out of lungs. Active exhalation involves abdominal muscles contracting and pulling diaphragm upwards.

Lungs

  • Contain bronchi, bronchioles, blood vessels, and alveoli.
  • Surrounded by pleural membranes with lubricating fluid for smoother expansion and contraction during breathing.
  • Inhalation is not caused by lung contraction but rather by altered air pressure.

Gas Transport (oxygen and carbon dioxide)

  • Oxygen is primarily bound to hemoglobin (98%).
  • The remaining amount (2%) is dissolved in blood plasma.
  • Carbon dioxide is bound to hemoglobin (23%), dissolved in blood plasma (7%), and in the form of bicarbonate ions (70%).

Nervous System Regulation of Breathing

  • Medulla oblongata: Breathing center establishing breathing patterns. Inhales every 4-5 seconds.
  • Diaphragm and intercostal muscles: Stimulated by the medulla oblongata. Breathing stops when stretch receptors in the lungs signal the brain.
  • Chemical Receptors: Respond to changes in the concentration of chemicals (like hydrogen ions or carbon dioxide) in spinal fluid to regulate breathing rate.
  • Carotid and Aortic Bodies monitor oxygen and carbon dioxide levels for breathing regulation.

Disorders of the Respiratory System

  • Pneumonia: Inflammation of alveoli due to bacterial or viral infections; fluid accumulation causing issues with breathing. Can be deadly; a possible complication of the flu.
  • Tuberculosis: Bacterial infection causing lung damage and scarring; leading fatal infectious illness. Very common (25% globally but 5-15% are sick). Difficult breathing and coughing up blood.
  • Cystic Fibrosis: Genetic disorder producing sticky mucus blocking airways. Infections often become fatal in those with cystic fibrosis. Patients must have lungs drained periodically. This is more common among Caucasians.
  • Lung Cancer: Uncontrolled cell division in lungs likely caused by smoking (>90% of cases). Impaired function due to tumors. Very preventable if people don't smoke.

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Description

Explore the complexities of the respiratory system in this quiz covering Chapter 10. You'll learn about its functions, components, and the pathways involved in gas exchange. Test your knowledge on everything from the upper respiratory tract to alveoli.

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