Respiratory System
The respiratory system is a complex system of organs and tissues that provide oxygen to the body and eliminate carbon dioxide. It is vitally important in maintaining homeostasis by regulating acid-base balance and pH.
The respiratory tract comprises the nose, throat (pharynx), windpipe (trachea), bronchi and lungs.
An online study is learning about the respiratory system's structure and function using interactive animations and diagrams. Test your knowledge with advanced quizzes and videos.
Most read articles
Respiratory System Anatomy – Major Zones & Divisions
The respiratory is separated into the conducting zone and the respiratory zone.
The conducting zone include structures that facilitate air to move in and out of the lungs.
The respiratory zone allow inhaled oxygen to diffuse into the lung capillaries in exchange for carbon dioxide.
Lung Volumes and Capacities
The amount of air in the lungs can be subdivided into four (4) volumes and four (4) capacities. The four volumes include tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, expiratory reserve volume and residual volume. The four capacities include inspiratory capacity, functional reserve capacity, vital capacity, and total lung capacity.
Nose and Nasal Cavity | Structure & Functions
An introduction to the nose and the nasal cavity. The nose is the first portion of the respiratory tract and serves as a vent for air exchange. Inhaled air is warmed, moistened, and cleaned so it can travel safely into other parts of the respiratory tract.
Trachea: anatomy, structure and function
There are four tissue layers of the tracheal wall. The trachea includes respiratory mucosa, submucosa, cartilaginous rings, trachealis muscle, and adventitia.
Glottis – Structure & Function
The vocal folds and the space between the folds are referred to as the glottis. Laryngeal muscles adjust the size of the glottic opening. A broader opening allow for air to enter and leave the trachea. The muscles reduce the size of the opening to create voice sounds.
Hemoglobin Molecule – Structure & Function
Hemoglobin structure in a detailed, interactive and illustrated tutorial (globin, alpha and beta subunits, porphyrin, heme groups,…etc) with colorful and simple animations about its states (relaxed & tensed).
Bronchial Tubes Structure, Functions, & Location | Bronchus Anatomy
Near the sternal angle, the trachea bifurcates (or splits), into the right and left primary (1) bronchi. Each bronchus runs freely for a few centimeters, then enters its respective lung. Air flows in and out of each lung through the primary bronchi.
Respiratory Membrane and Gas Exchange
An interactive demonstration of the structure of the respiratory membrane and the mechanism of gas exchange occurring in the lungs.
Bronchopulmonary Segments of the Lungs | Lung Segments | Tertiary Bronchi
An interactive demonstration of the bronchopulmonary segments featuring the iconic GBS illustrations. The segments of the right and left lung are highlighted and labeled.
Oxygen-Hemoglobin Dissociation Curve | How pH, CO and CO2 Affect it
The changes in blood plasma pH, CO and CO2 affect the oxygen-hemoglobin saturation.