The word "respiratory bronchiole" is a mouthful, but its spelling is straightforward once you break it down phonetically. The word starts with the "re-" prefix, which sounds like "ree." The first syllable "spi-" is pronounced like "spai," and the "ra-" at the end of the first syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound. The second syllable "to-" is pronounced with a long "o" sound, and the final syllable "-ry" sounds like "ree" again. Overall, the phonetic transcription of "respiratory bronchiole" is /ˈrɛs.pɪr.ə.tɔːr.i brɒŋk.i.oʊl/.
A respiratory bronchiole is a small, thin-walled passage in the respiratory system that is located within the lungs. It is responsible for conducting air deep into the lungs for gas exchange.
The respiratory bronchioles are the smallest branches of the bronchial tree, dividing from the terminal bronchioles. They are characterized by their thin walls, which are comprised of a single layer of ciliated epithelial cells and scattered smooth muscle fibers. At the beginning of the respiratory bronchiole, the walls are lined with cilia that help in the movement of mucus and any trapped particles towards the throat for removal.
These bronchioles play a crucial role in the respiratory system as they act as transitional structures between the conducting zone and the respiratory zone of the lungs. As air travels deeper into the lungs, it passes through the respiratory bronchioles and reaches the alveoli, where gas exchange occurs. The walls of the respiratory bronchioles are highly vascularized, allowing the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and blood vessels surrounding the alveoli.
Overall, respiratory bronchioles are essential structures that facilitate the efficient and effective movement of air in and out of the lungs, ensuring proper oxygenation of the blood and removal of carbon dioxide.
A bronchiole having lateral communications with the air-cells or alveoli.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "respiratory" comes from the Latin word "respirare", which means to breathe. It is derived from the prefix "re-" (again) and "spirare" (to breathe or blow).
The word "bronchiole" is derived from the Latin word "bronchus", meaning a tube or pipe. It is derived from the Greek word "bronkhos", which also means windpipe or bronchus. The suffix "-iole" in bronchiole indicates a smaller or diminutive form.
Therefore, the term "respiratory bronchiole" refers to the small airway tubes in the respiratory system that are involved in the process of breathing.