What is included in the conducting zone of respiratory system?

The conducting zone of the respiratory system includes the structures whose primary function is to transport inhaled and exhaled air to the gas exchange surfaces of the lungs. These structures are:

1. Nasal cavity: The nasal cavity is the first part of the respiratory system that the inhaled air passes through. It consists of two large air-filled chambers inside the nose.

2. Pharynx: The pharynx is a muscular tube that connects the nasal cavity to the larynx and esophagus. It is divided into three parts: nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx.

3. Larynx (voice box): The larynx is an organ located at the upper part of the trachea that contains the vocal cords and is responsible for sound production (speech).

4. Trachea (windpipe): The trachea is a tube-like structure that connects the larynx to the bronchi. It is made up of cartilage rings that help to keep the airway open.

5. Bronchi: The trachea branches into two bronchi, one leading to each lung.

6. Bronchioles: Each bronchus divides into smaller branches called bronchioles, which further branch into even smaller airways known as terminal bronchioles. These structures form the majority of the conducting zone.