Why Do Our Noses Run in the Cold?

Why does your nose produce more mucus when you are in cold, dry air?

• To cool down the air before it enters your lungs.

• To make the air drier so it's easier to breathe.

• To warm and moisturize the air entering your lungs.

• To help you smell things better in the cold.

Which of the following is NOT a main component of mucus?

• Water

• Salts

• Glycoproteins

• Oxygen

What is the primary function of the mucus produced in your nasal cavity?

• To make your nose run so you can clear it.

• To trap harmful particles and moisturize the air you breathe.

• To help your nose feel colder in warm environments.

• To increase the amount of oxygen you inhale.

What happens to the water vapor in your breath when you exhale into cold air?

• It evaporates and disappears.

• It freezes instantly into ice crystals.

• It condenses into liquid water droplets.

• It becomes part of the dry air.