Conducting zone function

The conducting zone provides a passage for air into and out of the lungs, removes debris and pathogens, and warms and humidifies incoming air.

Type I alveolar cells Type II alveolar cells

Core distinction · Thin squamous gas-exchange surface · Secrete surfactant

Pulmonary surfactant is secreted by type {{c1::II}} alveolar cells.

Surfactant surface tension

Pulmonary surfactant is a mixture secreted by type II alveolar cells that lowers the surface tension of alveolar lining fluid and helps prevent alveolar collapse during expiration.

Alveolar macrophage function

Alveolar macrophages are immune cells that phagocytose debris and pathogens that reach the alveoli.

Flashcard deck

Respiratory Foundations — Flashcards

Respiratory Foundations50 cardsBeginnerEnglish

A flashcard deck with 50 cards in respiratory foundations, made by Prognia.

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50 flashcards: 5 cloze, 14 term-definition, 14 classic-qa, 5 compare-contrast, 12 concept-explanation. Introductory Respiratory Foundations contains 50 flashcards and 50 quizzes across conducting airways and alveolar cells; pleura and lung lobes; inspiration, expiration, pressure gradients, resistance and compliance; the alveolar-capillary membrane and gas diffusion; oxygen carriage, hemoglobin affinity and carbon dioxide transport; brainstem, chemical and voluntary control of breathing; lung volumes and forced spirometric quantities; and basic airway inflammation, COPD and emphysematous damage. Twenty-five covered objectives and atomic concept links support targeted feedback and recommendations. No treatment selection, drug dosing, diagnostic spirometry cutoff, clinical reference range or individual prescribing advice is included. This introductory set does not establish clinical competency.