Module 7: Respiratory

Image: Illustration from Anatomy & Physiology, Connexions Web site.  Jun 19, 2013. Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license.

Take a deep breath—that simple act sets in motion one of the most vital processes in the human body. You’ve likely encountered the respiratory system in earlier lessons when studying gas exchange or the role of oxygen in cellular respiration. Now, we’ll build on that foundation to look more closely at the structures and mechanisms that allow the body to breathe, speak, and maintain critical balance in blood pH and gas levels.

In this module, you’ll explore how air moves from the nose and mouth down into the lungs, how oxygen is transferred into the bloodstream, and how carbon dioxide is expelled. We’ll cover key structures like the trachea, bronchi, alveoli, and diaphragm, and explain how breathing is regulated by the nervous system. Understanding this system is essential for anyone entering healthcare, fitness, or biology-related fields. Whether you're helping a patient manage asthma, interpreting blood gas results, or guiding someone through breath control in athletic training, a clear grasp of respiratory anatomy and physiology will be indispensable. This is the system that powers every moment of life—let’s take a closer look at how it works.

Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

1. List the structures of the respiratory system (CLOs 1-2)
2. List the major functions of the respiratory system (CLOs 1-3)
3. Outline the forces that allow for air movement into and out of the lungs (CLOs 1-3)
4. Outline the process of gas exchange (CLOs 1-4)
5. Summarize the process of oxygen and carbon dioxide transport within the respiratory system (CLOs 1-4)
6. Create a flow chart illustrating how respiration is controlled (CLOs 1-4)
7. Discuss how the respiratory system responds to exercise (CLOs 1-4, CLO 6)
8. Describe the development of the respiratory system in the embryo (CLOs 1-4)

To achieve these objectives:

1. Read the Module 7 Introduction 
   
2. Read Chapter 7 in Textbook
   
3. Complete the activities below.
   

Module Pressbooks Resources and Activities