Final answer:
The nasal conchae are bony structures that increase the surface area within the nasal cavity to warm, moisten, and filter incoming air, as well as to conserve water and prevent nasal epithelium dehydration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Function of the Nasal Conchae
The nasal conchae play a significant role in the respiratory system.
Attached to the lateral walls of the nasal cavity, these conchae—superior, middle, and inferior—are bony, scroll-like structures.
Their primary function is to increase the surface area within the nasal cavity.
This increased surface area helps to warm, moisten, and filter the air as it enters the nasal passages.
The swirling effect created by the conchae causes the air to come into closer contact with the mucous membranes, which traps particulate matter and pathogens.
Additionally, the conchae help in preserving water content and preventing dehydration of the nasal epithelium during exhalation.