The respiratory system is a vital organ system responsible for gas exchange between the body and the environment. Its primary function is to supply oxygen to the blood and remove carbon dioxide. Here’s an overview of the components and functions of the respiratory system: Components of the Respiratory System Nose and Nasal Cavity Function: Filters, warms, and moistens the air; detects odors. Components: Nostrils, nasal septum, nasal conchae. Pharynx (Throat) Function: Passageway for air and food. Divisions: Nasopharynx, oropharynx, laryngopharynx. Larynx (Voice Box) Function: Produces sound; routes air and food into the proper channels. Components: Epiglottis, vocal cords, thyroid cartilage. Trachea (Windpipe) Function: Conducts air to the bronchi. Structure: C-shaped cartilaginous rings maintain an open airway. Bronchi and Bronchioles Function: Conduct air from the trachea to the lungs; branch into smaller passages. Structure: The right and left primary bronchi lead into the lungs and branch into secondary and tertiary bronchi, and then into bronchioles. Lungs Function: Main organs of respiration; contain alveoli where gas exchange occurs. Structure: The right lung has three lobes (superior, middle, inferior) and the left lung has two lobes (superior, inferior). Alveoli Function: Site of gas exchange; oxygen diffuses into the blood, and carbon dioxide diffuses out. Structure: Tiny air sacs surrounded by capillaries. Functions of the Respiratory System Gas Exchange Oxygen Intake: Oxygen from inhaled air diffuses through the alveoli into the blood. Carbon Dioxide Removal: Carbon dioxide from the blood diffuses into the alveoli and is exhaled. Regulation of Blood pH Carbon Dioxide Levels: The respiratory system helps regulate blood pH by controlling the levels of carbon dioxide through breathing. Protection Filtering Mechanisms: The nasal hairs, mucus, and cilia trap dust, pathogens, and other particles. Reflexes: Coughing and sneezing expel irritants from the respiratory tract. Sound Production Vocal Cords: Air passing through the larynx vibrates the vocal cords to produce sound. Olfaction (Sense of Smell) Olfactory Receptors: Located in the nasal cavity, these receptors detect airborne chemicals. Breathing Process Inhalation (Inspiration) Diaphragm and Intercostal Muscles: The diaphragm contracts and flattens, and the intercostal muscles lift the ribs, expanding the thoracic cavity and reducing pressure, drawing air in. Exhalation (Expiration) Relaxation of Muscles: The diaphragm and intercostal muscles relax, the thoracic cavity decreases in volume, increasing pressure and pushing air out. Control of Breathing Medulla Oblongata and Pons: These brainstem regions regulate the rate and depth of breathing. Chemoreceptors: Located in the medulla, aorta, and carotid arteries, these receptors monitor levels of carbon dioxide, oxygen, and blood pH, and adjust breathing accordingly. Health and Diseases of the Respiratory System Common Cond