Respiratory+system

=Respiratory System=

The respiratory system's function is to supply oxygen to the blood while removing carbon dioxide. There are several components to this process and we will discuss each of them in turn. This page will be broken down into the four sections, Respiratory system anatomy, Mechanics of Breathing, Lung volumes, and Gas Exchange and Transport.

Respiratory System Anatomy




Path of air through the respiratory system
Air passes through the organs of the respiratory system in the following order: Nasal Passage --> Pharynx --> Larynx --> Trachea --> Bronchi --> Bronchioles --> Alveoli.

Muscles that lead to the respiration:
 * Diaphragm --> Thin muscle that separates the thoracic (chest) cavity from the abdominal (stomach) cavity. Contracts, moving downward increasing the volume of the chest cavity
 * Intercostal muscles --> Muscles found between the ribs that lead the chest lifting and expanding (increasing in volume) of the lungs.



Mechanics of Breathing

 * Boyles law states: A change in volume, leads to a change in pressure, which leads to a the flow of gasses
 * This law applies to movement of gasses in the respiratory system
 * As the volume of the lungs and thoracic (chest) cavity increases it leads to a change in pressure within the lungs. The change in pressure leads to air flowing into or out of the lung



Lung Models Lab (demonstrates the mechanics of breathing)

Respiratory volumes
Resiratory Volumes Notes

Respiratory Volumes Labs

Control of Respiration
Respiration is under conscious control and subconscious control of the nervous system. The **Pons** and **Medulla** are the sections of the brain that control our breathing subconsiously. We can also control our breathing during times of need (while singing we take deep controlled breaths.)

Respiratory Control Notes

The info on this page should help you prepare for your assessment. Once you have an understanding of the material above use the test ready sheet to prepare you for you assessment.