Respiratory System Overview & Nasal Anatomy

Which structure physically separates the two nasal cavities into left and right passages?

• Laryngeal vocal folds

• Nasal septum cartilage plate

• Hard palate bony floor

• Epiglottis elastic flap

Which pair correctly matches a respiratory function with its primary outcome in the body?

• Taking in oxygen decreases blood pH rapidly

• Taking in oxygen supports cellular respiration

• Removing carbon dioxide raises tissue oxygen stores

• Removing carbon dioxide prevents nitrogen buildup

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS2-3

Air entering the nose is conditioned before reaching the lungs. Which process is mainly performed by mucus lining the nasal cavities?

• Producing sound by vibrating cilia

• Exchanging gases across nasal septum

• Warming air using alveolar capillaries

• Moistening inhaled air and trapping particles

A student breathes through the mouth due to nasal congestion. Predict the most immediate consequence compared to normal nasal breathing.

• Enhanced filtering by the vocal cords

• Less air humidification and particle trapping

• Greater oxygen diffusion in alveoli

• Increased carbon dioxide removal rate

In the diagram showing nasal passage lining, what is the primary function of cilia in relation to the mucous layer and trapped particles?

• Secrete histamine to dilate blood vessels

• Break down allergens through enzymes

• Propel mucus toward pharynx for removal

• Absorb oxygen directly into capillaries

A person inhales cold, dry air while jogging. Which role of the sinuses best maintains airway health under these conditions?

• Warming and moistening incoming air

• Producing red blood cells for oxygen transport

• Generating immune cells in nasal cartilage

• Compressing air to increase pressure

If ciliary movement slows due to illness, what outcome is most likely within the nasal passages?

• Increased accumulation of particles in mucus

• Enhanced resonance of voice during speech

• Greater oxygen diffusion across nasal epithelium

• Faster drainage of mucus into esophagus

Which statement best describes the pharynx as shown in the diagram?

• It serves as a common passageway for food and air

• It channels only inhaled air to the lungs

• It lies inferior to the trachea in the neck

• It produces sound using paired vocal folds

Identify the correct order of pharyngeal divisions from superior to inferior.

• Laryngopharynx, oropharynx, nasopharynx

• Nasopharynx, laryngopharynx, oropharynx

• Nasopharynx, oropharynx, laryngopharynx

• Oropharynx, nasopharynx, laryngopharynx

A student feels hoarse after shouting. Using the second diagram, where is the structure responsible for sound production located?

• Posterior to the trachea within the pharynx

• Between the pharynx and trachea in the larynx

• Superior to the nasopharynx inside the nasal cavity

• Inferior to the laryngopharynx within the esophagus