What are the parts of respiratory system and their functions?
Parts of the Respiratory System
1. Nose: The nose is the primary organ of respiration. It filters, warms, and moistens the air we breathe. The nose also contains the olfactory bulb, which is responsible for our sense of smell.
2. Pharynx: The pharynx is a muscular tube that connects the nose and mouth to the larynx. It also helps to move air and food into the proper channels.
3. Larynx: The larynx, also known as the voice box, is a cartilaginous structure that houses the vocal cords. It is responsible for producing sound.
4. Trachea: The trachea is a long, thin tube that carries air from the larynx to the lungs. It is lined with ciliated cells that help to remove dust and other particles from the air.
5. Bronchi: The bronchi are the two large branches of the trachea that enter the lungs. They are lined with ciliated cells and mucus-producing glands.
6. Bronchioles: The bronchioles are the smaller branches of the bronchi that lead to the alveoli. They are lined with ciliated cells and mucus-producing glands.
7. Alveoli: The alveoli are tiny, sac-like structures in the lungs where gas exchange takes place. They are lined with capillaries, which are tiny blood vessels that allow oxygen to enter the bloodstream and carbon dioxide to leave the bloodstream.
Functions of the Respiratory System
1. Breathing: The respiratory system is responsible for bringing oxygen into the body and removing carbon dioxide from the body.
2. Gas exchange: Gas exchange takes place in the alveoli of the lungs. Oxygen from the air diffuses into the capillaries, while carbon dioxide from the blood diffuses into the alveoli.
3. Maintaining acid-base balance: The respiratory system helps to maintain the pH of the blood by regulating the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood.
4. Producing sound: The larynx produces sound by vibrating the vocal cords.
5. Protecting the body: The respiratory system helps to protect the body from harmful substances in the air, such as dust and pollen.