gas exchange general theory

• what is the function of the intercostal muscle


  when these contract the ribs are pulled up and out increasing the volume of the thorax
• what is meant by a bronchiole


  bronchi branch into these smaller tubes
• what is the larynx


  a box above the trachea containing the vocal cords
• what is the alveoli


  the main site of gas exchange
• what is the surfactant


  this prevents the alveoli from sticking together
• what is the trachea


  windpipe that is held open by c shaped cartillage
• what are the ribs


  bones that are moved by the intercostal muscles
• what is the diaphragm


  a dome-shaped muscle beneath the lungs
• what is the epiglottis


  a flap that flips down to cover the entry to the trachea during swallowing
• what is the pleural membrane


  It acts as a lubricant prevent friction against the inner wall of the thorax and lungs.