Lab 45

Pharynx

Passageway for air and food

Describe the function of the cilia in the respiratory tubes.

The cilia create a current of mucus toward the pharynx. The mucus contains entrapped particles that are usually swallowed.

Sinus (Paranasal sinus)

Air-filled space in skull bone that opens into nasal cavity

Lung

Consists of large lobes

Vocal Cord (True)

Fold of mucous membrane containing elastic fibers responsible for sound

How is breathing affected if the smooth muscle of the bronchial tree relaxes?

If the smooth muscle of the bronchial tree relaxes, the air passages dilate, which allows a greater volume of air movement.

Nasal Concha

Increases surface area of nasal mucous membrane

Alveolus

Microscopic air sac for gas exchange

Cricoid Cartilage

Most inferior portion of larynx

Glottis

Opening between vocal cords

Epiglottis

Partially covers opening of larynx during swallowing

Pleural Cavity

Potential space between visceral and parietal pleurae

How is breathing affected if smooth muscle of the bronchial tree contracts?

The air passages constrict the size of the lumens, which reduces the volume of air movement.

What is the functional advantage of the alveolar walls being so thin?

The simple squamous epithelial cells allow for rapid diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the blood and the alveolar.

What is the function of the mucus secreted by the goblet cells?

The sticky mucus is secreted into the upper and lower respiratory tract, which will trap particles of dust and microorganisms.