Respiratory System

 Learning objectives

By the end of this section, you will be able to do the following:

• Describe the functions of the respiratory tract
• Describe the gross anatomy of the respiratory system
• Outline the passage of air from the atmosphere to the alveoli
• Relate respiratory tract anatomy to function
• Explain the physiology of respiration including gas exchange, ventilation, O2 and CO2 transport in the blood
• Describe pressure changes that occur within the thorax during respiration and explain their effect on gas movement
• Describe different lung volumes and capacities and explain their significance
• Explain how respiration is controlled
• Describe pathological conditions of the respiratory system
• Compare basic mammalian respiration to strategies used by different animals (fish, birds, reptiles)