Anatomy: Respiratory System Essay

Introduction

The primary function of the respiratory system is to supply the blood with oxygen. The respiratory system does this through breathing. Breathing is a natural process that we use to obtain oxygen, unlike eating or drinking to get energy. When we breathe, we inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide. This exchange of gases is the respiratory system’s means of getting oxygen to the blood. The respiratory tract is responsible for taking the gases to and from the exchange surfaces of the lungs.

Many parts play a role in this process, such as; nose, nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli.

Task

The anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system are extremely important to the human body. It will give you a broad understanding of how the body obtains oxygen, removes waste products, and the importance of its vital function in keeping people alive. At the end of this assignment, you should like be able to describe and explain the structure and functions of the respiratory system as well as label a diagram of the respiratory system.

You will explore the respiratory system using interactive websites and also websites that you will take self-quizzes to check your understanding or memorization of the parts. This webquest is divided into two parts, one the anatomy of the respiratory system and two the physiology of the respiratory system. Use the following resources to complete the assignments, you may use alternative sites, but you must record the url address. Make sure that the sites you use are valid; no Wikipedia or ask sites. Try to stick with sites that are of a domain like .org, .edu, .gov.

Resources

1. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/hlw/

2. http://www.le.ac.uk/pathology/teach/va/anatomy/case2/frmst2.html

3. http://www.howstuffworks.com/lung.htm

4. http://www.wisc-online.com/objects/ViewObject.aspx?ID=AP15104

5. http://www.getbodysmart.com/ap/respiratorysystem/menu/menu.html

6. http://www.vtaide.com/png/assess.htm – Body

1. You will need a computer with internet access
2. Read and review the internet resources provided.
3. On a separate piece of paper, answer the questions as for the assigned task.
4. When you have answered all of the questions,
5. If you have any problems with the webquest, please contact your teacher for further guidance.
6. Good Luck and enjoy!!

Task One

Using the internet resources listed above, write down information so you can answer the following questions:

1. Describe the function of the nasal and oral pharynx for breathing. 2. Describe the structure and function of the epiglottis. 3. Describe the structure and location of the trachea. Explain its function in relation to respiration. 4. Describe the structure and function of the cricoid cartilage. 5. Explain the function of the larynx.

6. List and describe the two major branches of the airway to the lungs. 7. Explain the function of the lungs and the number of lobes. 8. Discuss the function of the alveoli. Describe its structure and location. 9. Describe the structure and location of the diaphragm. Explain its importance in relation to respiration. 10. Complete the diagram of the respiratory system using the following website: 11. Print out the results when you are done.

12. Hand in a copy of your assignments.

Task Two

Using the internet resources listed above, write down information so you can answer the following questions:

1. Discuss the process of inhalation and describe how it occurs. 2. Discuss the process of exhalation and describe how it occurs. 3. Explain how gas exchange takes place in the lungs at the alveolar level. 4. Explain how gas exchange takes place at the cellular level. 5. List the steps in the process of how oxygen passes from the air into the blood. 6. What is the percentage of oxygen in the air we breathe from the atmosphere? 7. Explain the structural differences in the respiratory anatomy of the adult from a child or infant. 8. Hand in a copy of your assignment.

Conclusion

You have successfully completed the exercise on the respiratory system. Hopefully now you have a better understanding of how the lungs work, how we breathe, and how important it is to protect our lungs with proper personal care and exercise.

Evaluation

Use the following websites as final review of the respiratory system to aid in your studies.

After opening up the following website, please print out and answer the questions. You may use the website for assistance if necessary.

Use the following website as a final review to help you with the lesson.

http://www.naturalhealthschool.com/heart_lungs.html – online lesson

The following website will be helpful as a quick quiz:

http://www.biologycorner.com/anatomy/respiratory/resp_quiz.html