The Respiratory System

The respiratory system is a complex network of organs and tissues that work together to bring oxygen into the body and remove carbon dioxide.

Main Components

Nose and Mouth: Air enters the body through the nose or mouth.
 
Trachea (Windpipe): Air passes through the trachea, which leads to the lungs.
 
Bronchi: Trachea divides into bronchi, one for each lung.
 
Bronchioles: Bronchi branch into smaller bronchioles, leading to alveoli.
 
Alveoli: Tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs (oxygen in, carbon dioxide out).
 
Lungs: Organs where gas exchange occurs.
 
Diaphragm: Muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity, helping with breathing.

How the Respiratory System Works?

Inhalation: Air enters the body through the nose or mouth.
 
Air Passages: Air passes through the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles.
 
Gas Exchange: Oxygen diffuses into the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide diffuses out.
 
Exhalation: Diaphragm relaxes, and air is pushed out of the lungs.

Functions

Oxygen Supply: Provides oxygen to the body’s cells.
 
Carbon Dioxide Removal: Removes waste carbon dioxide from the body.
 
Regulation: Helps regulate pH levels in the body.

Interesting Facts

  • The human lung contains over 300 million alveoli!
  • The respiratory system takes in around 11,000 litres of air per day!
  • The diaphragm contracts and relaxes around 20 times per minute!
  • The lungs are so thin that they can float on water!

Common Respiratory System Issues

Asthma: Inflammation and constriction of airways.
 
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Progressive lung damage.
 
Pneumonia: Infection of the lungs.
 
Lung Cancer: Abnormal cell growth in the lungs.

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