The respiratory system in humans has the following important features:
Let us have a detailed look at the different parts of the respiratory system and their functions.
Larynx
Trachea
Lungs
The energy is generated by the breakdown of glucose molecules in all living cells of the human body.
Oxygen is inhaled and is transported to various parts and are used in the process of burning food particles (breaking down glucose molecules) at the cellular level in a series of chemical reactions.
The obtained glucose molecules are used for discharging energy in the form of ATP- (adenosine triphosphate.
Let us have a detailed look at the different parts of the respiratory system and their functions.
Nose
Humans have exterior nostrils, which are divided by a framework of a cartilaginous structure called the septum. This is the structure that separates the right nostril from the left nostril. Tiny hair follicles that cover the interior lining of nostrils act as the body’s first line of defense against foreign pathogens. Furthermore, they provide additional humidity for inhaled air.
Larynx
Two cartilaginous chords lay the framework for the larynx. It is found in front of the neck and is responsible for vocals as well as aiding respiration. Hence, it is also informally called the voice box. When food is swallowed, a flap called the epiglottis folds over the top of the windpipe and prevents food from entering into the larynx.
Pharynx
The nasal chambers open up into a wide hollow space called the pharynx. It is a common passage for air as well as food. It functions by preventing the entry of food particles into the windpipe. The epiglottis is elastic cartilage, which serves as a switch between the larynx and the esophagus by allowing the passage of air into the lungs, and food in the gastrointestinal tract.
Have you ever wondered why we cough when we eat or swallow?
Talking while we eat or swallow may sometimes result in incessant coughing. The reason behind this reaction is the epiglottis. It is forced to open for the air to exit outwards and the food to enter into the windpipe, triggering a cough.
Trachea
The trachea or the windpipe rises below the larynx and moves down to the neck. The walls of the trachea comprise C-shaped cartilaginous rings which give hardness to the trachea and maintain it by completely expanding. The trachea extends further down into the breastbone and splits into two bronchi, one for each lung.
Bronchi
The trachea splits into two tubes called the bronchi, which enter each lung individually. The bronchi divide into secondary and tertiary bronchioles, and it further branches out into small air-sacs called the alveoli. The alveoli are single-celled sacs of air with thin walls. It facilitates the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide molecules into or away from the bloodstream.
Lungs
Lungs are the primary organs of respiration in humans and other vertebrates. They are located on either side of the heart, in the thoracic cavity of the chest. Anatomically, the lungs are spongy organs with an estimated total surface area between 50 to 75 sq meters. The primary function of the lungs is to facilitate the exchange of gases between the blood and the air. Interestingly, the right lung is quite bigger and heavier than the left lung.
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