Which structures are included as part of the lower airway?

Which structures are included as part of the lower airway?

• A. Pharynx and larynx
• B. Trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles
• C. Nasal cavity and sinuses
• D. Aorta and ventricles

Answer: (B)

The lower airway consists of the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles, which are vital components of the respiratory system. This region runs from the trachea, which branches into the main bronchi, and further divides into smaller bronchi and bronchioles that lead to the alveoli, where gas exchange occurs. In contrast, the pharynx and larynx are parts of the upper airway, involved in filtering, warming, and humidifying inhaled air, as well as in voice production. Meanwhile, the nasal cavity and sinuses also belong to the upper airway, serving similar functions of air filtration and conditioning. The aorta and ventricles are part of the cardiovascular system, unrelated to the respiratory pathway. Therefore, the inclusion of the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles as part of the lower airway highlights their crucial role in conducting air to the lungs and facilitating gas exchange, cementing their classification in the context of the entire respiratory system.

The lower airway consists of the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles, which are vital components of the respiratory system. This region runs from the trachea, which branches into the main bronchi, and further divides into smaller bronchi and bronchioles that lead to the alveoli, where gas exchange occurs.

In contrast, the pharynx and larynx are parts of the upper airway, involved in filtering, warming, and humidifying inhaled air, as well as in voice production. Meanwhile, the nasal cavity and sinuses also belong to the upper airway, serving similar functions of air filtration and conditioning. The aorta and ventricles are part of the cardiovascular system, unrelated to the respiratory pathway.

Therefore, the inclusion of the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles as part of the lower airway highlights their crucial role in conducting air to the lungs and facilitating gas exchange, cementing their classification in the context of the entire respiratory system.