05.01 Introduction

The respiratory system is made up of the lungs and respiratory passages (nasal and oral cavities, nasopharynx, pharynx, larynx, trachea etc) (Figure 5.1). Its main function is to provide the body with oxygen and toget rid of waste carbon dioxide. Oxygen is needed for the production of energy, in the form of ATP, to enable the body to carry out important functions.

Figure 5.1 Some of the major structures that make up the respiratory system (Copyright, QUT)