Questions and Answers
What are the lungs?
What is the mediastinum?
The middle portion of the thoracic cavity where the heart lies.
What is the apex of the lungs?
The superior portion of the lungs located at the level of the clavicle.
What is the base of the lungs?
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What is the hilum?
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The right lung has 2 lobes.
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The left lung is smaller due to the location of the heart.
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What are pleural membranes?
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What is involved in the mechanics of breathing?
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What function do alveoli serve in the lungs?
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Study Notes
Lungs
- Spongy organs within the thoracic cavity responsible for gas exchange.
- Protected by ribs and located inferior to the clavicle, superior to the diaphragm.
- Composed of air passages, alveoli, blood vessels, connective tissue, lymphatic vessels, and nerves.
Mediastinum
- Central area of the thoracic cavity housing the heart.
Lung Anatomy
- Apex: Superior portion of the lungs at clavicle level.
- Base: Inferior portion resting on the diaphragm.
- Hilum: Medial surface depression allowing entry and exit for bronchi, blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves.
Lung Lobes
- Right Lung: Composed of 3 lobes.
- Left Lung: Contains 2 lobes; smaller due to the proximity of the heart.
Pleural Membranes
- Serous membranes in the thoracic cavity consisting of:
- Parietal pleura: Lines the thoracic cavity.
- Visceral pleura: Covers the lungs.
- Pleural cavity, located between the membranes, contains serous fluid to lubricate and reduce friction.
Mechanics of Breathing
- Ventilation: Involves inhalation (air intake) and exhalation (air expulsion).
- External respiration: Gas exchange between alveoli and blood in pulmonary capillaries.
- Internal respiration: Gas exchange between blood in systemic capillaries and tissue fluid.
Gas Exchange
- Alveoli facilitate the diffusion of oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
- Hemoglobin, found in red blood cells (RBC), transports gases to tissues.
- In tissues, oxygen is exchanged for carbon dioxide, which is carried back to the heart in blood plasma.
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Description
Explore the anatomy of the lungs and surrounding pleural membranes with these flashcards. Understand definitions and key terms related to the thoracic cavity, including the mediastinum and lung structure. Perfect for medical students and anyone interested in respiratory anatomy.
