The Human Respiratory System

Kaarle Comeau
Biology Fundamentals
BIO112- Section 01
Ms. Giardino

The Human Respiratory System

Part Two
The main purpose of the respiratory system is to supply our bodies with oxygen so that we stay
healthy and functional. With the constant stream of oxygen, our bodys cells are absorbing the
oxygen while removing carbon dioxide. The first step to this complex system begins at the nasal
cavity. The nasal cavity is a hollow area within the nose that is lined with hair and mucous.
These features might not seem that important but they trap bacteria or impurities such as dust
and mold. The oral cavity is another way that oxygen gets into the body but isnt as affective for
filtering as the nasal cavity. The pharynx is a muscular tube that extends from the nasal cavity
to the esophagus. Once the oxygen travels through the pharynx it goes to the larynx. This is the
section of the airway that is connected to the trachea. The epiglottis is one of the many
cartilage areas of the larynx and is essential. This covers the larynx while swallowing to prevent
choking and promote the distribution of oxygen throughout the body. The trachea is a long
tube that connects the larynx to the bronchi and provides a clear airway to enter and exit the
lungs. Just like the nasal cavity, the trachea traps unwanted debris and stops it from going into
the lungs. The trachea also has cilia which move mucus so it can be swallowed and digested.
Once the trachea ends, the airway splits into two sections. These are known as the bronchi and
are split even more creating bronchioles. The bronchioles are located in the lungs and bring
oxygen to the alveoli. The lungs are a pair of spongy organs that have enough space to expand
and contract to get oxygen. In the interior of the lungs there are small sacs known as alveoli
which exchange gases with the blood passed through the capillaries. The diaphragm is a sheet
of muscles that lies across the bottom of the chest cavity. The diaphragm is responsible for
pumping the carbon dioxide out of the lungs and pulls the oxygen into the lungs. As the

The Human Respiratory System

diaphragm contracts and relaxes, breathing takes place. As the diaphragm contracts, oxygen is
pulled into the lungs. When the diaphragm relaxes, carbon dioxide is pumped out of the lungs.