Food Energy and Respiration - Science Learning 3

How does air reach blood vessels?

Answer: Air enters in the body through two passages i.e. nasal cavity (nose) and oral cavity (mouth). Afterwards, the air passes through trachea (windpipe) and reaches the bronchi. From bronchi the air moves to bronchioles and then reaches the alveoli (air sacs). The exchange of gases takes place in alveoli as blood vessels are present there.

What is trachea or windpipe?

Answer: Like gullet or esophagus is for digestive system, trachea or windpipe is for respiratory system. It is located in from of the esophagus. It contains C-shaped cartilages to prevent collapsing while inhaling. Moreover, trachea also contains tiny hair like structures known as Cilia. Cilia are responsible for the movement of mucus in the throat and trapping of dust.

What is bronchus?

Answer: Trachea is split into two tubes known as 'Bronchi' i.e. Right Bronchus and Left Bronchus. This is where air is distributed among the two lungs. Bronchi are further distributed into bronchioles.

What is bronchiole?

Answer: Each bronchus splits up into smaller bronchioles. Bronchioles are so small that they can't be seen by a naked eye.

What is alveolus?

Answer: Alveolus is also known as air sac. Alveolus is the origin where gaseous exchange takes place. Blood vessels are present in alveolus.