Respiratory System Revision

Anatomy and physiology for sport: Respiratory System

LO4: Know the structure and function of the respiratory system



Content and assessment criteria


• Structure of the respiratory system

• Functions of the respiratory system

• Mechanics of breathing

• Lung volumes

• Responses to exercise and sport



Respiratory System diagram




Respiratory system structures

, • The upper respiratory system:

• The nose

• The mouth

• The pharynx

• The larynx

• The lower respiratory system:

• The trachea

• The bronchi (right bronchus and left bronchus)

• The bronchioles

• The alveoli (surrounded by capillaries)


What is the function of the lungs and respiratory system?

The lungs and respiratory system work with the cardiovascular system to ensure the body receives
oxygen and removes carbon dioxide.

The respiratory system:
• Takes in oxygen from the atmosphere
• Releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
The cardiovascular system:
• Circulates oxygen the cells of the body
• Collects carbon dioxide from the cells
All cells need oxygen to survive and perform their various activities.



Respiration
The overall exchange of gases between the atmosphere and the blood.

Involves three processes:

• Breathing (pulmonary ventilation) - the process of physically moving air in and out of the lungs

• External respiration – the exchange of gases between the lungs and the blood

• Internal respiration – the exchange of gases between the blood and the cells of the body