Respiratory and Diffusion

Respiratory System Overview

• Main function is to supply oxygen to the body and eliminate carbon dioxide.
• Respiration in the respiratory system refers to the exchange of gases between the lungs and the environment, while cellular respiration involves the use of oxygen by cells to produce energy.

Gas Exchange Processes

• The process that supplies oxygen and removes carbon dioxide is called pulmonary ventilation or breathing.
• Initial process of respiration includes inhalation, where air enters the lungs.
• Gas exchange occurs primarily in the alveoli, small air sacs within the lungs, between blood and air.

Nasal Cavity Functions

• Mucus and hairs in the nasal cavity trap particles and pathogens, helping to clean and humidify the air before it enters the lungs.
• Epiglottis functions as a flap that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea during swallowing.

Bronchi and Airways

• Pulmonary gas exchange primarily occurs in the alveoli.
• Cartilage in the bronchi maintains open airways, preventing collapse during breathing.
• Cilia in the bronchi propel mucus and trapped particles upward toward the throat for expulsion.

Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Transport

• Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the bloodstream, where it is transported to body cells.
• Carbon dioxide is more concentrated in the blood, especially from metabolic processes in body cells.

Circulatory System Functions

• Main function of arteries is to transport oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to body tissues.
• Primary function of the heart is to pump blood throughout the body, ensuring circulation.

Diffusion and Transport Mechanisms

• Primary driving force for diffusion is the concentration gradient, where substances move from areas of higher concentration to lower concentration.
• In facilitated diffusion, solutes move through the cell membrane via protein channels, allowing selective transport.
• End result of diffusion is equal concentration of molecules in different areas, achieving equilibrium.

Concentration Gradient

• The term that describes the difference in concentrations of molecules in two areas is known as a concentration gradient.

Test your knowledge of the respiratory system with this quiz. Explore the process of respiration and the exchange of gases between the body and the outside air. See how much you know about the vital functions of breathing and oxygen intake.