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.