Fundamentals of Respiratory Physiology

📋 Course Outline

1. Respiratory System Anatomy
2. Mechanism of Respiration
3. Pulmonary Volumes and Capacities
4. Gas Transport Processes
5. Respiratory Control Mechanisms
6. Applied Respiratory Physiology

📖 1. Respiratory System Anatomy

🔑 Key Concepts & Definitions

• Nasal Cavity: A hollow space within the nose that filters, warms, and moistens incoming air; lined with mucous membranes and cilia to trap particles.
• Pharynx: A muscular tube connecting the nasal cavity to the larynx and esophagus, serving as a passageway for air and food.
• Larynx: Also known as the voice box; contains vocal cords and functions in phonation, airway protection, and routing air to the trachea.
• Trachea: A rigid tube (windpipe) that conducts air from the larynx to the bronchi; lined with ciliated mucosa to trap debris.
• Bronchi and Bronchioles: The main passageways that branch from the trachea into each lung (bronchi) and further subdivide into smaller bronchioles, distributing air throughout the lungs.
• Alveoli: Tiny air sacs at the end of bronchioles where gas exchange occurs; surrounded by capillaries for oxygen and carbon dioxide transfer.

📝 Essential Points