We
breathe through our respiratory system which is consisting
of specific organs and
structures. Respiration takes place in lungs to supply the body with
oxygen. The respiratory system is involved in the intake and exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between our body and the environment. The
anatomical features of the respiratory system include trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, lungs, and diaphragm.
We
start breathing at birth; the respiratory system becomes fully functional upon
exposure to air, although some lung development and growth continues throughout
childhood. Pre-term birth can lead to infants with
under-developed lungs. These lungs show incomplete development of the alveolar type II cells, cells that produce surfactant.
The
passage of air into the lungs is known as inhalation, and
the passage of air out of the lungs to expel carbon dioxide is known as exhalation.
Molecules
of oxygen and carbon dioxide are passively exchanged, by diffusion, between the gaseous external environment and
the blood. When the air pressure is
high inside the lungs, the air from lungs flow out. When the air pressure is
low inside, the air flows into the lungs. This exchange process takes place in
the alveoli air sacs in the lungs.
As gas exchange occurs, the acid-base balance of
the body is maintained as part of homeostasis.
If proper respiration is not maintained, two opposing conditions could
occur: respiratory acidosis, a life threatening condition, and respiratory alkalosis.
Maton, Anthea; Jean, Hopkins
Susan, Johnson Charles William, McLaughlin Maryanna Quon Warner David, LaHart
Wright, Jill (2010). Human Biology and Health. Englewood Cliffs:
Prentice Hall. pp. 108–118.
