QUIZ 1

Which is the major organ of the respiratory system where the gas exchange takes place, carbon dioxide is given off, and oxygen is taken in?

• Kidneys

• Intestines

• Lungs

• Appendix

Answer explanation

The major organ of the respiratory system where gas exchange takes place, carbon dioxide is given off, and oxygen is taken in is the lungs. The lungs are responsible for the exchange of gases between the air we breathe in and our bloodstream. Oxygen from the air enters the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide, a waste product, is expelled from the body through exhalation. The kidneys, intestines, and appendix are not directly involved in gas exchange and do not play a major role in the respiratory system.

Which of the following is a large muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity and helps with breathing? 

• Larynx

• Diaphragm

• Trachea

• Bronchus

Answer explanation

The diaphragm is a large muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity and plays a crucial role in the process of breathing. When we inhale, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, allowing the lungs to expand and fill with air. When we exhale, the diaphragm relaxes and moves upward, pushing the air out of the lungs. This muscle is essential for the functioning of the respiratory system and is responsible for the majority of the work involved in breathing.

Small air sacs in the lungs where many capillaries exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen are ___________.

• Alveoli

• Bronchi

• Trachea

• Cartilage

Answer explanation

The small air sacs in the lungs where many capillaries exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen are called alveoli. These tiny structures are responsible for the efficient exchange of gases between the air and the bloodstream. The walls of the alveoli are thin and surrounded by a network of capillaries, allowing for the diffusion of oxygen into the bloodstream and the removal of carbon dioxide from the body.

Which organ(s) carry air into the lungs?

• Alveoli

• Sinuses

• Diaphragm

• Bronchi and bronchioles tubes

Answer explanation

Bronchi and bronchiole tubes carry air into the lungs. The bronchi are the main airways that branch off from the trachea and lead into the lungs. They further divide into smaller bronchiole tubes, which continue to branch out and become narrower as they reach the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. These tubes play a vital role in transporting air from the outside environment into the lungs, allowing for oxygen to enter and carbon dioxide to be expelled.

A flap over the trachea that keeps out food and anything else that could clog the trachea is known as ____________.

• Epiglottis

• Larynx

• Pharynx

• Cartilage

Answer explanation

The flap over the trachea that prevents food and other substances from entering the trachea is called the epiglottis. It acts as a protective mechanism to ensure that only air enters the trachea and prevents choking or aspiration of foreign objects into the lungs. The larynx is the voice box, the pharynx is the throat, and cartilage is a connective tissue found in various parts of the body.

The windpipe is known as ___________.  

• Larynx

• Trachea

• Adenoid

• Esophagus

Answer explanation

The windpipe, also known as the trachea, is the correct answer. The trachea is a tube-like structure that connects the larynx (voice box) to the bronchi in the lungs. It allows air to pass in and out of the lungs, facilitating respiration. The larynx is located above the trachea and houses the vocal cords, while the adenoid and esophagus are not directly related to the windpipe.

Which organ is known as the voice box?

• Pharynx

• Larynx

• Trachea

• Esophagus

Answer explanation

The organ known as the voice box is the larynx. The larynx is located in the throat and plays a crucial role in producing sound and allowing us to speak. It contains the vocal cords, which vibrate when air passes through them, producing sound waves that form our voice. The larynx also helps to protect the airway during swallowing by closing off the entrance to the trachea.

Small spaces in the skull thought to regulate the temperature and humidity of the air taken into the body are _____________. 

• Alveoli

• Tonsils

• Nasal turbinates

• Nasal pathways

Answer explanation

Nasal conchae, or nasal turbinates, are bony structures within the nasal cavity that serve to regulate inhaled air. They warm cold air to body temperature, add moisture for respiratory comfort, and filter out dust and pathogens, ensuring clean and suitable air for the respiratory system. These adaptations protect delicate lung tissue and promote efficient lung function.

Lymph tissues and lymph nodes that protect the body from infection are _____________.

• Adenoids and tonsils

• Alveoli and sinuses

• Bronchi and tranchea

• Sinuses and mandible

Answer explanation

Lymph tissues and lymph nodes play a crucial role in the body's immune system by protecting it from infections. Adenoids and tonsils are specific types of lymph tissues that are located in the throat and help to trap and filter out harmful bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth and nose. Therefore, adenoids and tonsils are the correct answer as they are directly associated with the protection against infection.

Which tube carries air down to the windpipe?

• Larynx

• Pharynx

• Sinuses

• Bronchus

Answer explanation

The pharynx is the tube that carries air down to the windpipe, also known as the trachea. It is a muscular tube located behind the nasal cavity, mouth, and larynx. The pharynx serves as a passageway for both air and food, connecting the nasal cavity and mouth to the esophagus and trachea.