Final answer:
The tracheal bifurcation is also known as the carina, which is the point where the trachea divides into the right and left primary bronchi.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tracheal bifurcation is also known as the carina. This is the point at which the trachea divides into the right and left primary bronchi.
The structure is notable for its role in the respiratory system, where it branches out to ensure that air reaches both lungs. The carina, which contains specialized nervous tissue, triggers a cough reflex if a foreign object, such as food, enters the trachea by mistake. This important feature helps prevent aspiration and maintains clear airways.
The primary bronchi supported by rings of cartilage, similar to the trachea, prevent the collapse of these airways. As they enter the lungs at the hilum, they further branch into the bronchial tree, comprising secondary and tertiary bronchi, which then divide into bronchioles and finally terminal bronchioles that lead to the alveoli where gas exchange occurs.