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How does an increase in CO2 in the blood affect pH levels?
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An increase in CO2 increases the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+), making the blood more acidic. This triggers the brain to increase the breathing rate to expel more CO2 and stabilize the pH.
Explain the structure and function of the trachea.
The trachea is a cylindrical tube reinforced with rings of cartilage that provides a clear airway for air to move to and from the lungs.
What are the different systems of gas exchange in earthworms, fish, and insects?
Earthworms use their skin for gas exchange, fish use gills, and insects use a tracheal system with spiracles for gas exchange.
What condition might require the use of artificial surfactants for treatment?
Premature babies with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) may require artificial surfactants to prevent their alveoli from collapsing.
Name a few clinical conditions that affect the respiratory system.
Clinical conditions include asthma, emphysema, and respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).
What is the role of surfactant in the alveoli?
Surfactant reduces surface tension within the alveoli, preventing their collapse and ensuring efficient gas exchange.
Why is the left lung smaller than the right lung?
The left lung is smaller because it accommodates the space for the heart, specifically the cardiac notch.
What is the role of the larynx in the respiratory system?
The larynx, also known as the voice box, functions in voice production and helps ensure that food and other particles do not enter the lower respiratory tract.
How does the respiratory system interact with the circulatory system?
The respiratory system supplies oxygen to the blood and removes carbon dioxide from the blood, which is then circulated throughout the body by the circulatory system.
How is air modified in the nasal cavity before reaching the lungs?
In the nasal cavity, the air is warmed, humidified, and filtered with the help of mucus, nasal hairs, and microscopic cilia.
Describe the branching pattern of the bronchi within the lungs.
The bronchi branch into primary bronchi, then secondary bronchi, followed by tertiary bronchi, and finally bronchioles. This branching ends in alveolar ducts and sacs.
What happens within the alveoli during gas exchange?
Within the alveoli, oxygen is picked up by red blood cells while carbon dioxide is transferred from the blood to the alveoli to be exhaled.
What is the significance of the diaphragm in breathing?
The diaphragm is a major muscle in respiration that contracts to create a vacuum that pulls air into the lungs and relaxes to expel air from the lungs.
In what way does the nervous system regulate the respiratory system?
The nervous system regulates involuntary breathing by monitoring blood pH levels, and adjusting the breathing rate to maintain homeostasis.
What are the primary functions of the human respiratory system?
The primary functions are the exchange of gases (oxygen is taken in, and carbon dioxide is expelled), which supports cellular respiration and ATP production.
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