Final answer:
The diaphragm aids in breathing by contracting to allow air in, nostrils filter and warm air, the respiratory system orchestrates gas exchange, and ribs protect the lungs and assist in breathing. The respiratory system includes various components that filter air and facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the alveoli. The system's response to exercise involves increasing respiration rate to meet the body's increased oxygen demand.
Step-by-step explanation:
Functions of the Respiratory System Components
The respiratory system is essential for gas exchange in the body, ensuring that oxygen is brought into the body and carbon dioxide is expelled. Each part of the respiratory system has a specific function:
- Diaphragm: The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle that contracts and relaxes to help inflate and deflate the lungs during breathing. Its movement increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, allowing air to flow into the lungs.
- Nostrils: The nostrils are the entry point for air into the respiratory system. They filter, warm, and humidify the air before it reaches the lungs.
- Respiratory system: This system is formed by the nostrils, nasal cavities, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli. It functions to facilitate the exchange of gases by delivering oxygen to the bloodstream and removing carbon dioxide from the body.
- Ribs: The ribs provide protection for the lungs and other thoracic organs. During breathing, the movement of the ribs assists the diaphragm in increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity, facilitating the inflow and outflux of air.
Additional Details
Respiratory tract: Air passes through the respiratory tract, which is divided into the upper (nostrils, nasal cavities, pharynx, larynx) and lower (trachea, bronchi, bronchioles) parts. Their functions include warming, filtering, and humidifying the air.
Gas exchange: In the alveoli of the lungs, oxygen and carbon dioxide transport occurs. Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the blood, while carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled.
Response to exercise: During exercise, the respiratory rate and depth of breathing increase to supply more oxygen to the muscles and to remove carbon dioxide more rapidly.
The development of the respiratory system in the embryo begins early and involves the formation of the lung buds leading to the formation of the bronchial tree and alveoli.