Label the structures of the upper respiratory tract (sagittal view) by clicking and dragging the labels to the correct location. Naris (nostril) Vocal fold (true vocal cord) Oropharynx Sphenoidal sinus Epiglottis Nasal meatuses Nasal conchae Frontal sinus Vestibular fold Nasopharynx Laryngopharynx
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The structures of the upper respiratory tract in a sagittal view include:
- Naris (nostril): The nostrils are the external openings to the nasal cavity where air enters the respiratory system. They are located at the front of the face and lead to the nasal passages.
- Nasal Meatuses: These are the passages or airways within the nasal cavity. They lie beneath the nasal conchae (turbinates) and help direct airflow. There are three nasal meatuses: superior, middle, and inferior.
- Nasal Conchae: Also known as the turbinates, these are bony structures in the nasal cavity that help filter, warm, and moisten the air we breathe. They also increase the surface area of the nasal cavity to improve airflow.
- Frontal Sinus: These are located in the forehead region, above the eyes. They are part of the paranasal sinuses and help to lighten the skull and improve voice resonance.
- Sphenoidal Sinus: These are located within the sphenoid bone, behind the eyes and nose. Like other sinuses, they serve to lighten the skull and improve voice resonance.
- Oropharynx: This is the part of the pharynx located behind the oral cavity. It serves as a passageway for both food and air, connecting the mouth to the larynx and esophagus.
- Nasopharynx: The upper part of the pharynx, located behind the nasal cavity, connecting it to the oropharynx. It serves as a passage for air and is also where the Eustachian tubes connect to the middle ear.
- Laryngopharynx: This is the part of the pharynx located below the oropharynx, just before the larynx. It directs food and air to the appropriate passages, with food directed to the esophagus and air to the larynx.
- Epiglottis: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage that covers the larynx during swallowing, preventing food from entering the windpipe.
- Vocal Fold (True Vocal Cord): These are the structures in the larynx that vibrate to produce sound. They are essential for speech.
- Vestibular Fold: Also known as false vocal cords, these are located above the true vocal cords and play a role in protecting the vocal cords.
Each of these structures plays a vital role in the passage and processing of air, as well as in speech production and protection of the respiratory tract.