15 Questions
What is the primary function of the C-shaped cartilage in the trachea?
To prevent the trachea from collapsing
What is the purpose of the trachealis muscle in the trachea?
To bridge the gap between the ends of the cartilage C's
What is located next to the trachea?
The oesophagus
Why is the flexibility of the trachea important?
To allow for movement and passage of food in the oesophagus
What is the shape of the cartilage in the trachea?
C-shaped
What is the structure of the lungs composed of?
Several lung lobes
What is the site of gas exchange in the lungs?
Alveoli
What is the function of bronchioles in the lungs?
To divide into smaller airways
What is the composition of lung lobes?
Millions of alveoli
What is the purpose of alveoli in the lungs?
To exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide
What is unique about the lining of alveoli?
It is only one epithelial cell thick
What surrounds each alveolus?
A dense network of capillaries
What is the function of surfactant in the alveoli?
To prevent the alveoli from collapsing and sticking together
What is the structure of an alveolus?
A small sac surrounded by a dense network of capillaries
What is the purpose of the dense network of capillaries surrounding each alveolus?
To facilitate gas exchange between the alveoli and the blood
Study Notes
Trachea Structure
- The trachea has C-shaped cartilage rings that reinforce its walls, preventing collapse while allowing flexibility.
- This flexibility is necessary for movement and to accommodate the passage of food through the oesophagus, which lies adjacent to the trachea.
- The trachealis muscle bridges the gap between the ends of the cartilage C's.
Lung Tissue Structure
- The left and right lungs are composed of multiple lung lobes
- Lung lobes are further divided into millions of tiny alveoli
Alveoli Function
- Alveoli are tiny air sacs located at the end of bronchioles
- Gas exchange takes place within alveoli
Alveolus Structure and Function
- The lining of an alveolus is composed of only one epithelial cell layer in thickness.
- Alveoli are surrounded by a dense network of capillaries, which enables efficient gas exchange.
- Each alveolus contains a small amount of surfactant, a liquid that prevents alveolar collapse and sticking together, allowing for proper gas exchange.
Learn about the structure of the trachea, including its cartilage rings and muscles, and their functions. Understand how they contribute to flexibility and movement.
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