Final answer:
Laminar flow is characterized by smooth, orderly layers that do not mix and typically occurs in smaller airways. Turbulent flow is characterized by eddies and swirls, occurring in larger airways where there might be obstructions or high speeds.
Step-by-step explanation:
Laminar flow occurs in smaller, narrower airways whereas turbulent flow occurs in larger, wider airways.
Layers flow without mixing when the flow is laminar. In contrast, when there is turbulence, the layers mix, and there are significant velocities in directions other than the overall direction of flow. Streamlines, which represent the paths followed by small volumes of fluids, are smooth and continuous in laminar flow but break up and mix in turbulent flow. Obstructions, sharp corners, or high speeds can cause turbulence in the flow, leading to increased resistance. Conversely, laminar flow is characterized by smooth and orderly flow, providing less resistance to movement.
In physiological terms, you can observe that blood flow is typically laminar in large vessels, but can become turbulent in regions where vessels are narrowed by plaque or other factors that increase the velocity of the blood flow.