Anatomy Exam Respiratory System Anatomy 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary function of the epiglottis?
- To produce mucus for the trachea
- To prevent food and liquids from entering the larynx during swallowing (Correct answer)
- To filter inhaled particulates
- To warm and humidify incoming air
Correct answer: To prevent food and liquids from entering the larynx during swallowing
The epiglottis folds over the glottis during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the larynx and trachea.
Question 2: The trachea bifurcates into the right and left primary bronchi at which anatomical landmark?
- Sternal angle (angle of Louis)
- Carina (Correct answer)
- Hilum of the lung
- Inferior border of the cricoid cartilage
Correct answer: Carina
The carina is the internal ridge at the point of tracheal bifurcation into the right and left primary bronchi, located at the level of the sternal angle.
Question 3: How many lobes does the right lung have?
- One
- Two
- Three (Correct answer)
- Four
Correct answer: Three
The right lung has three lobes (upper, middle, and lower) separated by the horizontal and oblique fissures.
Question 4: Which cartilage forms the 'Adam's apple' in the larynx?
- Cricoid cartilage
- Arytenoid cartilage
- Thyroid cartilage (Correct answer)
- Corniculate cartilage
Correct answer: Thyroid cartilage
The thyroid cartilage is the largest cartilage of the larynx and forms the anterior prominence known as the 'Adam's apple.'
Question 5: What type of epithelium lines the trachea and primary bronchi?
- Simple squamous epithelium
- Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium (Correct answer)
- Stratified squamous epithelium
- Simple cuboidal epithelium
Correct answer: Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium
Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium lines the conducting zone airways; its cilia beat to propel mucus and trapped particles toward the pharynx.
Question 6: The hilum of the lung, where bronchi and vessels enter, is located on which surface?
- Costal surface
- Diaphragmatic surface
- Mediastinal surface (Correct answer)
- Apical surface
Correct answer: Mediastinal surface
The hilum, where bronchi, pulmonary vessels, and nerves enter the lung, is located on the mediastinal (medial) surface of each lung.
Question 7: Which muscle is the primary muscle of inspiration?
- External intercostal muscles
- Diaphragm (Correct answer)
- Serratus anterior
- Pectoralis minor
Correct answer: Diaphragm
The diaphragm is the primary muscle of respiration; its contraction and flattening increases thoracic volume, generating the negative pressure needed for inhalation.
Anatomy Exam Respiratory System Anatomy 1
What is the primary function of the epiglottis?