The Respiratory System – 70 Multiple-Choice Questions &
Answers Complete Exam Review – Portage Learning |
Latest 2026/2027 | 100% Verified
Module 5: The Respiratory System
This module explores the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system,
including gas exchange and regulation.
Respiratory Structures: Nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs,
and alveoli.
Gas Exchange: Occurs in alveoli; oxygen enters blood, carbon dioxide is
removed.
Respiratory Regulation: Controlled by the medulla oblongata and pons
in the brainstem.
Pathological States: Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD), and pneumonia.
This comprehensive document contains 70 multiple-choice questions and
verified answers for the Module 5 Exam covering the Respiratory System for
Portage Learning's BIOL251 Human Anatomy & Physiology I w/Lab or BIOD152
,Anatomy & Physiology II. Each question includes the correct answer
in bold with a detailed italic explanation.
SECTION 1: ANATOMY OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM (Questions 1–20)
1. The respiratory system is divided into which two main parts?
A) Thoracic and abdominal
B) Conducting and respiratory divisions
C) Upper and lower tracts
D) Nasal and pulmonary divisions
Answer: B
The respiratory system is anatomically divided into the conducting division
(passages that transport air) and the respiratory division (structures where gas
exchange occurs). The conducting division includes the nose, pharynx, larynx,
trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles, while the respiratory division includes
respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveoli.
2. Which of the following is NOT part of the conducting division of the
respiratory system?
,A) Trachea
B) Bronchi
C) Alveoli
D) Larynx
Answer: C
Alveoli are part of the respiratory division where gas exchange occurs. The
conducting division transports air to the lungs and includes the nasal cavity,
pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles. The respiratory division
includes respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveoli.
3. The nasal cavity is separated from the oral cavity by the:
A) Palate
B) Pharynx
C) Conchae
D) Epiglottis
Answer: A
The palate forms the roof of the oral cavity and the floor of the nasal cavity. The
hard palate (anterior) is bony, and the soft palate (posterior) is muscular. This
separation prevents food from entering the nasal cavity during chewing.
4. What is the primary function of the nasal conchae (turbinates)?
, A) Filtering debris from the air
B) Increasing surface area to warm and humidify air
C) Producing mucus
D) Detecting odors
Answer: B
The nasal conchae are bony projections on the lateral walls of the nasal cavity
that increase the surface area of the mucosa. This increased surface area
warms, humidifies, and filters incoming air more effectively.
5. The pharynx is divided into three regions. Which of the following is the
most superior?
A) Oropharynx
B) Laryngopharynx
C) Nasopharynx
D) Esophagus
Answer: C
The pharynx is divided into three regions: nasopharynx (superior, behind the
nasal cavity), oropharynx (middle, behind the oral cavity), and laryngopharynx
(inferior, leading to the larynx and esophagus).
6. The nasopharynx is lined with what type of epithelium?