Respiratory System
The respiratory system is a complex of organs responsible for gas exchange between the body and the external environment. It includes the nasal cavity, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs, ensuring the intake of oxygen into the blood and the removal of carbon dioxide. The respiratory system plays a key role in sustaining life and energy metabolism in the body.
Did you know that...
01
Lung surface area
If all the alveoli (tiny air sacs) in the lungs were spread out, their surface area would be about 70 square meters—equal to the area of a tennis court.
02
Breathing rate
An adult takes about 12-20 breaths per minute, totaling more than 17,000 breaths per day.
03
Oxygen in the blood
About 98% of the oxygen in the blood is bound to hemoglobin in red blood cells.
04
Cough as protection
Coughing is a reflex mechanism that helps clear the airways of irritants.
05
Breathing and speech
The larynx and vocal cords in the respiratory system allow humans to produce sounds and speak.
Structure and functions
Nasal Cavity
The main entrance for air into the respiratory system, which then warms, moisturizes, and filters the inhaled air. Function: filtering inhaled air from dust, microorganisms, and other pollutants; moisturizing the air; warming the inhaled air to body temperature. Interesting fact: The nasal cavity contains olfactory receptors, which allow us to sense smells.
Larynx
An organ containing vocal cords that allows for speaking and making sounds, and also serves as a valve that prevents food and liquids from entering the trachea. Function: sound production for speech; protecting the respiratory tract from the entry of food and liquid. Interesting fact: The larynx in men is usually larger, which makes their voice lower.
Oral Cavity
The second possible entrance for air into the respiratory system; used when the nasal cavity is blocked or during intense respiratory effort. Function: breathing through the mouth when the nasal cavity is unavailable; beginning the digestion process by chewing and mixing ingested food with saliva gland secretions. Interesting fact: Breathing through the mouth does not filter air as effectively as the nasal cavity.
Trachea
A tube through which air moves from the larynx to the bronchi and lungs. Function: conducting air to the lungs for gas exchange; protecting the respiratory tract from the entry of food, dust, and other particles. Interesting fact: The trachea is reinforced by cartilaginous rings that prevent it from collapsing and help maintain its shape.
Lung
Organs where gas exchange occurs: oxygen enters the blood and carbon dioxide is removed from the body. Function: facilitating gas exchange between the blood and air; supplying oxygen to tissues and removing carbon dioxide from the blood. Interesting fact: The right lung is slightly larger than the left and is divided into three lobes, while the left lung has only two lobes.
Diaphragm
The main muscle involved in the process of breathing, it helps to expand and compress the lungs, facilitating inhalation and exhalation. Function: creating changes in the volume of the thoracic cavity to regulate air pressure in the lungs during breathing. Interesting fact: The diaphragm also participates in many other processes, including vomiting, hiccupping, and even during childbirth.
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