The Respiratory System

Learning Goals

• I can explain the structure and function of the respiratory system.

The Respiratory System

• The respiratory system is an organ system that is made up of the nose, mouth, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.

• Function: to provide the oxygen needed by the body and removing carbon dioxide from your body’s cells.

The Respiratory System

The Path of Air • Air enters through the mouth and the nose

• Passes through the pharynx (throat)

• Travels down the trachea (windpipe)

• Into two bronchi (bronchus)

• and into the branches of the bronchioles.

• These branches are called bronchioles

• The air will eventually reach the alveoli at the end of these branches

• Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiT621PrrO0

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sU_8juD3YzQ

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVBYg03rfd8

Structure of the Respiratory System

Gas Exchange

• Gas exchange is a process in which oxygen enters the bloodstream and carbon dioxide leaves the blood by diffusion.

• Bronchi branch into branchioles and into alveoli.

• Alveoli are tiny air sacs. This is where gas exchange occurs (at the alveoli-capillary interface)

• The concentration of oxygen in the blood is always less than the concentration of oxygen in the air of alveoli.

Gas Exchange Between the Blood and Alveoli

Figure 10.8A

Breathing

• Inhalation: Air in

Chest muscle contracts

Rib cage expands

Diaphragm contracts

• Exhalation: Air out

Chest muscle relaxed

Rib cage contracts

Diaphragm expands

Breathing

• Ventilation – is the transportation of air in (inspiration/inhalation) and out (expiration / exhalation) of the lungs.

• Mechanics of Breathing:

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43jJGXudePs&feature=related

Epiglottis

Lung Cancer

• Tobacco use – first and second hand smoking is detrimental to the respiratory system.

• Contains carcinogens – cancer causing factors

Success Criteria

• I can explain the components of the respiratory system.