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Respiratory System Structures
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Medulla Oblongata
Regulates involuntary respiratory and cardiovascular functions.
Trachea
Provides air flow to and from the lungs.
Pulmonary Veins
Carry oxygenated blood from the lungs back to the heart.
Thoracic Cavity
The part of the body cavity situated between the neck and the diaphragm; contains the lungs and heart.
Larynx
Houses the vocal cords, and is responsible for sound production.
Pulmonary Capillaries
Tiny blood vessels surrounding the alveoli where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged between the air and the blood.
Diaphragm
Main muscle of respiration that contracts and flattens to increase thoracic volume and draw air into the lungs.
Epiglottis
A flap of cartilage that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airways.
Vocal Cords
Muscular bands within the larynx that vibrate to produce sound when air passes over them.
Alveoli
Tiny sacs within the lungs where gas exchange occurs.
Lungs
Pair of organs that house the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli; responsible for gas exchange with the blood.
Intercostal Muscles
Muscles located between the ribs that assist with breathing by expanding and contracting the rib cage.
Nasal Cavity
Located within and posterior to the nose, the nasal cavity conditions the air to be received by the other areas of the respiratory tract.
Nose
Warms, moistens, and filters air as it is inhaled.
Chemoreceptors
Detect changes in blood pH, carbon dioxide, and oxygen levels, and help regulate breathing rate.
Pleura
Membrane surrounding the lungs and lining the chest cavity, reducing friction during breathing movements.
Surfactant
A substance that reduces surface tension within the alveoli, preventing their collapse during exhalation.
Sinuses
Air-filled spaces in the skull that help humidify and heat inhaled air, and give resonance to the voice.
Rib Cage
Bony structure providing protection to the thoracic organs and support to the upper body. Also assists in respiration.
Carina
A ridge at the base of the trachea where it splits into two bronchi, it is sensitive to irritation and can induce coughing.
Pharynx
Passageway for air and food, aids in sound production.
Bronchioles
Smaller branches off the bronchi that lead to alveoli.
Bronchi
Two main branches off the trachea that lead to each lung, conducting air into the lungs.
Pulmonary Arteries
Carry deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs.
Mediastinum
The central region of the thoracic cavity, containing the heart, trachea, esophagus, and other structures.
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