Chapter 10, Problem 1A

Summary Introduction

To identify:

The parts of the human respiratory system.

Introduction:

Human respiratory system is an organ system that is related to life supporting breathing process that is taking in oxygen and exhaling out carbon dioxide. It consists of several parts like the bronchi, alveoli, lungs, nostrils and many more. Every organ performs different functions.

Pictorial representation:

Fig.1: The parts of human respiratory system.

Explanation of Solution

(a) Nasal cavity: It is the empty space from where the oxygen enters the respiratory tract and carbon dioxide leaves the respiratory tract. It is also the first part and the opening of the respiratory tract.

(b) Nose: It is also called nares. It has hairs and there is also the lining of mucosal epithelial cells. There function is to trap dust, germs and small insects that enter through the air in our body.

(c) Pharynx: It is the cavity that is covered by membrane. It is found behind the nose and the mouth. It connects the esophagus with the nose and the mouth.

(d) Epiglottis: It is a flap-like structure that guards the opening and the closing of the wind pipe and thereby it protects humans from the entry of food in the windpipe.

(e) Glottis: It is a part of larynx that has vocal cords and it has a slit-like opening between the vocal cords. Glottis affects the pitch of the voice by its contraction and relaxation.

(f) Larynx: It is a hollow organ that is made up of muscle cells. It forms an air passage for the air to pass to the lungs. It also holds the Adam’s apple.

(g) Trachea: It is a C shaped structure that is made up of cartilage. It is also called the windpipe. It connects larynx and the esophagus.

(h) Bronchus: Bronchus is the structure that originates from trachea. They further branch into lobular structures called the bronchioles.

(i) Bronchioles: These are the minute branches that originate from bronchi. They are a connecting link between alveoli and bronchi. They do not contain any cartilage.

Conclusion

Several organs of the respiratory system are the trachea, bronchi, alveoli, and so on.