Respiratory System Structures

Structures of the Respiratory System

• Larynx is the voice box, located at the top of the trachea.
• Bronchi are branching structures that deliver air to the left and right lungs from the trachea.
• Bronchioles are smaller branches of bronchial tubes.
• Alveoli are small sacs at the end of the bronchioles.
• Alveoli maximize surface area and are the site of gas exchange.
• Pleura consists of two thin layers of tissue surrounding the lungs.
• The fluid between the layers of the pleura cushions the lungs.
• Diaphragm is a flat muscle separating the abdominal and thoracic cavities.
• The diaphragm is involved in the breathing process.
• Epithelial cells secrete mucous in the trachea and Bronchi
• Epithelial cells have cilia (hair like)