Human Anatomy: Laryngopharynx and Upper Respiratory Tract

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What is the function of the larynx in the context of swallowing?

It helps to mix food with saliva

It increases the pressure in the esophagus to facilitate swallowing

It prevents swallowed materials from entering the lower respiratory tract (correct)

It produces digestive enzymes to break down food

What is the relationship between the laryngopharynx and the esophagus?

The laryngopharynx is a part of the esophagus

The laryngopharynx is continuous with the esophagus (correct)

The esophagus is a part of the laryngopharynx

The laryngopharynx is superior to the esophagus

What is the function of the respiratory bronchioles in the lower respiratory tract?

They are the primary site of gas exchange

They conduct air into the alveoli (correct)

They are not a part of the lower respiratory tract

They produce surfactant to reduce surface tension

What is the lining of the larynx?

Non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the conducting airways in the lower respiratory tract?

To conduct air into the alveoli Signup and view all the answers

Where does the larynx terminate?

At the superior border of the esophagus Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium in the lower respiratory tract?

To act as a dust filter and move mucus upward towards the pharynx Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the pleural fluid in the pleural cavity?

To act as a lubricant, ensuring minimal friction during breathing Signup and view all the answers

What is the composition of the epiglottis in the lower respiratory tract?

Elastic cartilage Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between the right and left primary bronchi?

The right primary bronchus is shorter, wider, and more vertically oriented Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the incomplete rings of cartilage in the bronchial tree?

To support the walls of the primary bronchi and ensure they remain open Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the thyroid cartilage in the lower respiratory tract?

To form the laryngeal prominence (Adam's Apple) Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the vocal ligaments in the lower respiratory tract?

To attach the arytenoid cartilages to the thyroid cartilage Signup and view all the answers

How many secondary bronchi (or lobar bronchi) does the left lung have?

Two Signup and view all the answers

What determines the pitch of the voice in the lower respiratory tract?

The length and tension of the vocal cords Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the visceral pleura?

To cover the surface of the lungs Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the compartmentalization of the thoracic cavity?

To prevent the mobile organs from interfering with each other and limit the spread of local infections Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the pharynx in sound production?

To resonate, amplify, and enhance sound quality Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of Valsalva's maneuver in the lower respiratory tract?

To help empty the rectum during defecation Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the parietal pleura?

To line the mediastinum, diaphragm, and thoracic wall Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the glottis in the lower respiratory tract?

To allow air to pass through the vocal folds Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between the bronchi and bronchioles?

Bronchioles have more smooth muscle, whereas bronchi have more cartilage Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the pleura in the lower respiratory tract?

To reduce friction, make compartments, and prevent the spread of infection Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the smooth muscle in the bronchioles?

To decrease airflow by decreasing bronchiole diameter Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the airways from the nasal cavity through the terminal bronchioles?

Conducting zone Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the alveolar pores?

To allow for equalization of air pressure across the lung Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate diameter of an alveolus?

0.25-0.5 mm Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the region of the lung where gas exchange occurs?

Respiratory zone Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the cartilage in the bronchi?

To provide structural support Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the structures that lead into the alveoli?

Alveolar ducts Signup and view all the answers

Which type of fibers constrict air tubes in the lower respiratory tract?

Parasympathetic motor fibers Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the pulmonary circulation?

Provide low pressure and high volume supply of oxygenated blood to the alveoli Signup and view all the answers

What type of cells are responsible for secreting antimicrobial proteins in the alveoli?

Type II cells Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the bronchial arteries?

Provide oxygenated systemic blood to lung tissue Signup and view all the answers

What is the main component of the wall of an alveolus?

Simple squamous epithelium Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the alveolar macrophages?

Remove debris and microbes from the alveoli Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the surfactant-secreting cells in the alveoli?

Reduce surface tension in the alveoli Signup and view all the answers

Through which structure do nerve fibers enter each lung?

Pulmonary plexus Signup and view all the answers