ohn, a 72-year-old grandfather, had been smoking heavily for 24 years and had a persistent cough. A biopsy of his lung tissue revealed considerable amounts of carbon particles. How could this happen considering the natural cleaning mechanism of the respiratory system?

What will be an ideal response?


The sweeping action of the ciliated epithelium is essential in order to propel inhaled dust and other debris out of the respiratory tract. Anything that inhibits this mechanism would allow foreign substances to remain in the tract, which may cause damage. Chemicals such as nicotine may inhibit the action of the cilia, allowing carbon particles found in smoke to remain in the lungs.

Anatomy & Physiology

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Which cranial nerve innervates most of the viscera in the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities?

A. Vagus nerve (X) B. Trochlear nerve (IV) C. Abducens nerve (VI) D. Hypoglossal nerve (XII) E. Accessory nerve (XI)

Anatomy & Physiology

Total body water is NOT a function of which of the following?

A) amount of body fat B) body mass C) age D) amount of water ingested

Anatomy & Physiology

Convection is the:

a. flow of heat waves away from the blood b. transfer of heat to the skin and then to the external environment c. absorption of heat by water (sweat) vaporization d. none of the above

Anatomy & Physiology

The conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin is catalyzed by ____

a. albumin b. hemoglobin c. prothrombin d. thrombin

Anatomy & Physiology