Respiratory System

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What are the defence mechanisms in place in the human breathing system?

The lining membranes are covered in cilia and mucus.

What does mucus in the breathing system trap?

Dust, pollen, and pathogens.

Where is the mucus moved up to?

The pharynx.

What happens to the pathogens swallowed in the mucus?

They are killed by the acid in the stomach. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the nose and mouth in the breathing system?

To filter and warm the air, and to detect chemicals in the air. Signup and view all the answers

What does the air pass through in the nose?

The nasal cavities. Signup and view all the answers

What do chemoreceptors in the air detect?

Chemicals in the air to collect information. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the sense of smell in the breathing system?

To check if food is still edible or to check if there is a predator nearby. Signup and view all the answers

Where does the human breathing system start?

At the mouth and nostrils (buccal cavity and nasal passages). Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the cilia in the breathing system?

To beat in unison and move the mucus up to the pharynx. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the epiglottis?

To stop food from entering the trachea by covering the opening of the trachea when swallowing. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of the trachea?

To carry air to the lungs. Signup and view all the answers

What is the structure of the bronchus?

It is the first division of the trachea and forms a short tube leading to each lung. Signup and view all the answers

What are bronchioles?

They are further subdivisions of the bronchus that allow air to freely reach all areas of the lungs. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the alveoli?

To facilitate gaseous exchange in the lungs. Signup and view all the answers

What are pleural membranes?

They are moist, lubricated membranes that surround the lungs and prevent abrasion of lung tissue against the ribcage. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the diaphragm?

To separate the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity and play a major role in breathing. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the ribs?

They surround the thoracic cavity and protect the lungs and heart. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the intercostal muscles?

They lift the ribcage up and out, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Medulla Oblongata in breathing?

To control the breathing rate by measuring the concentration of oxygen in the blood and adjusting the breathing rate accordingly. Signup and view all the answers