Respiratory system

Respiration: it is the chemical reaction in cells that break down

nutrient molecules release energy. It may be aerobic or
anaerobic.

Uses of energy

- In movement (Muscle contraction).

- Maintenance of body temperature by producing
heat.
- Protein synthesis.
- Cell division.
- Transmission of electrical impulses.
- Growth.

Gas exchange in humans

Biology 1
Dr. Kirolous Soliman
The exchange of gases across respiratory surfaces
such as obtaining oxygen by blood and release of
carbon dioxide from blood into lungs.

The conducting tubes clean, moisten & warmen the air

before reaching the alveoli.

This tube conducting system includes:

Biology 2
Dr. Kirolous Soliman
 Nose - Contains hair: to trap dust and
microbes.
- Contains mucus: to moisten air.
- Contains blood capillaries: to warmen
the air.
Larynx - The voice box which contains the vocal
cords whose vibrations produces
sound.
Trachea - Lined by ciliated epithelium with
(windpipe) goblet cells.
- Contains C-shaped cartilage which:
1) Keeps the trachea open all the time.
2) Gives support.
3) Allows the expansion of the
oesophagus behind the trachea.
Bronchi - Lined by ciliated epithelium with
(Bronchus)S goblet cells.
- Lined with cartilage for support.

Bronchioles - Small branches of bronchi, which ends

with air sacs (Alveoli).

Biology 3
Dr. Kirolous Soliman
 Alveoli Has adaptations for exchange of gases:
(air sacs) 1) Large surface area.
2) Very thin walls: shorter distance
for substances to cross (diffusion).
3) Walls are moist:
-to prevent dryness
- for gases to dissolve before diffusion.
4) Good blood supply.
5) well ventilated.
Intercostal - Two sets of antagonistic muscles
muscles (opposite) external and internal.
- Found between ribs.

Diaphragm - A dome – shaped muscle separating

the thorax and abdomen.

Biology 4
Dr. Kirolous Soliman
 Gas exchange

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Dr. Kirolous Soliman
* Ciliated cells:

Present in the respiratory tract ( trachea, bronchi,

bronchioles):

- It contains goblet cells with hair like projections called

cilia.
- Goblet cells: secrete mucus which traps dust and
microbes.
- Cilia is in a continuous movement to sweep the mucus
(which carry the dust and microbes) away from the
lungs.
- They both prevent dust and microbes from reaching
the lungs.

Biology 6
Dr. Kirolous Soliman
Comparison between inspired and expired air:

Gas Inspired Expired air Reason

air

O2 21 % 16 % Used in
respiration.

Co2 0.04 %- 4% Product of

0.03% respiration.

Temperature Variable Higher Air is warmed by

the flowing blood
around alveoli.
Water Variable Saturated Evaporation of
vapour some moisture
lining the alveoli.

Biology 7
Dr. Kirolous Soliman