Human Breathing

• Why is it ideal to breathe through the nose?


  The nasal cavity creates moist warm air which diffuses easier from the lungs into the blood.
• What is the function of the epiglottis?

  It closes over the trachea when we swallow.
• What is the function of the larynx?

  To produce sound.
• What is the function of cartilage in the trachea?

  To prevent the tubes from collapsing as air enters.
• What is the function of mucous in the trachea?

  To trap dust, bacteria and viruses.
• What process occurs in the lungs?

  Gaseous exchange.
• What are the 4 adaptations of alveolis?

  There are lots of them, they have a large surface area for faster rate of gas exchange, they have moist surfaces which allow gases to diffuse faster into the blood, and they have a rich capillary blood supply to carry gases away from the lungs.
• What structure controls breathing?

  The medulla oblongata in the brain.
• What makes inhalation an active process?

  The diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract, which requires energy.
• What makes exhaling a passive process?

  It doesn't require energy.
• What is one disorder associated with breathing?

  Asthma.
• What is the cause of asthma?

  It can be triggered from inhaling allergens.
• What is the treatment for asthma?

  Steroids are taken to widen the bronchioles and reduce inflammation.