Final answer:
If the air intake openings were very small, it would decrease air flow through the trachea and make it difficult for air to pass through the nasal cavity. This would result in decreased gas exchange with the blood and impair normal breathing.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the air intake openings were very small, it would have several effects on the respiratory system. Firstly, there would be a reduction in the amount of air that could travel through the trachea, resulting in decreased air flow. Secondly, the smaller openings would make it difficult for air to pass through the nasal cavity, affecting the process of inhalation. Lastly, the reduction in size of the openings would decrease the rate of gas exchange with the blood, as less air would be able to enter the lungs. Overall, these effects would impair normal breathing and could lead to respiratory issues.