Primal Pictures Ltd.

2010

RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

INTRODUCTION
Cells need a constant supply of oxygen to generate energy to drive cellular activities, creating carbon dioxide (CO2) as a waste product. Blood delivers oxygen (O2) to cells and removes carbon dioxide. Blood is oxygenated and has carbon dioxide removed as it passes through the lungs. Breathing in (inhalation) and breathing out (exhalation) bring oxygen into and carbon dioxide out of the lungs, respectively. The lungs comprise millions of tiny, thin-walled alveoli creating a large surface area for efficient, two-way diffusion. The respiratory tract carries air to and from the lungs. Air drawn in through the nose or mouth passes through the pharynx and larynx of the upper respiratory tract, and continues through the lower respiratory tract, which is formed from the trachea, bronchial tree, and the lungs. Inhalation relies on decreasing the pressure in the lungs below the atmospheric pressure to draw air in. Pressure in the lungs is decreased by increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity; this is achieved by raising the ribcage using the intercostal muscles, and lowering the diaphragm. The lungs move with the chest wall because the cavities which contain them are closed spaces. Each lung is protected by a double membrane called the pleural membrane. The walls of the thoracic cavity are lined by a superficial layer called the parietal pleura, while the thin visceral pleura covers the lungs themselves. The minute space between these two layers contains a lubricant, pleural fluid, which ensures that the lungs slide smoothly over the thoracic wall, reducing friction between the membranes. Pleural fluid also acts to adhere the two layers together, allowing the lungs to follow the movements of the thoracic cage. Exhalation is largely passive, as tissues recoil back to their start position once the intercostal muscles and diaphragm have relaxed. Forced exhalation, such as when inflating a balloon, is abdominal and diaphragmatic in nature. Functions of the respiratory system Ventilation Gas exchange Blood pH Air preparation Vocalization Olfaction Protection and defense The delivery of O2 to the lungs and the expulsion of CO2 and H2O out of the lungs. The diffusion of O 2 into the bloodstream and the diffusion of CO2 out of the bloodstream. The regulation of the acid-base levels of blood. The process of filtering, warming, and humidifying inspired air. The production of speech and melody created by the vibration of the vocal folds. The process of detecting smell by the use of olfactory receptors. The process of protecting respiratory surfaces from dehydration and temperature change and defending the body against inhaled pathogens.