How do bronchi work?

The bronchi are the main airways that carry air to and from the lungs. They branch off from the trachea, or windpipe, and enter the lungs. Inside the lungs, the bronchi divide into smaller and smaller branches called bronchioles. The bronchioles end in tiny air sacs called alveoli, where gas exchange occurs.

The bronchi are lined with cilia, which are tiny hair-like structures that help to move mucus and foreign particles out of the lungs. The mucus is produced by glands in the lining of the bronchi. It helps to trap dust, pollen, and other particles that we breathe in. The cilia sweep the mucus up the airways, where it can be coughed up or swallowed.

The bronchi also contain muscles that can contract and relax to control the flow of air into and out of the lungs. When we breathe in, the muscles relax and the bronchi widen. When we breathe out, the muscles contract and the bronchi narrow. This helps to control the amount of air that is moved in and out of the lungs.

The bronchi are an important part of the respiratory system. They help to ensure that we can breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide.