Respiratory System Overview

Three bony scrolls covered by mucous membrane, found in the nasal cavity. They increase the surface area for air contact with the mucous membrane.

The passageway below each nasal concha. These narrow passages and the turbulence created by the conchae ensure adequate air contact with the mucous membrane.

A muscular funnel extending from the choanae to the larynx, responsible for passage of food and air.

The cartilaginous structure that prevents food from entering the airway and produces sound.

A flap of tissue (originally cartilage) that closes the airway during swallowing, directing food and drink to the esophagus.

The space between the two vocal cords, responsible for sound production and controlling the tone and thickness of the sound.

The tube that connects the larynx to the bronchi, supported by C-shaped rings of cartilage.

The branching system of tubes that carry air from the trachea to the alveoli, progressively decreasing in size.

The primary organ for breathing, responsible for gas exchange.

The serous membrane that surrounds the lungs, consisting of two layers: visceral pleura and parietal pleura.

The process of taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. It is essential for cellular respiration and energy production.

The system responsible for gas exchange: delivering oxygen to the blood and removing carbon dioxide.

The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate the exchange of gases – oxygen and carbon dioxide. This process is crucial for cellular respiration.

The conducting division consists of the airways that transport air to the lungs without gas exchange. It includes the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, and bronchi.

The respiratory division comprises the alveoli and other structures where gas exchange occurs. This is where oxygen enters the blood and carbon dioxide leaves.

The nose serves as the entry point for air, warms, cleanses, and humidifies it. It also plays a role in smell and voice resonance.

The nasal cavity is divided into two halves by the nasal septum, a partition made of bone and cartilage. It's the chamber inside the nose where air is processed.

The process of inhaling air into the respiratory system. Incoming air travels through the airways and reaches the alveoli in the lungs.

The process of exhaling air out of the respiratory system. Air travels back through the airways and exits the body.

Alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. They are extremely thin-walled and surrounded by capillaries for efficient diffusion.