What the purpose of the mucus found within the respiratory system is to

a. trap particles from the air before they reach the lung.

b. lubricate the epiglottis

c. is wrong

d . push the cilia away from the lungs

Ans.

Mucus is an aqueous, slippery secretion produced by cells of mucous membranes and mucous glands. The entire respiratory system is lined with mucous membranes that continuously secrete mucus.

The mucus plays role in trapping the small particles, such as smoke, microbes, and pollen that enter to respiratory tract during inhalation. These trapped particles are then moved out of the nose with the help of cilia present in mucous membrane.

Thus, the correct answer is option A). 'trap particles from the air before they reach lung.'

The purpose of mucus present inside the respiratory system is to trap foreign particles from the air before they reach the lung.

Further Explanation:

Lungs have a powerful defense against respiratory system infections. The nasal cavity is lined with hairs to expel the trapped microbes by a sneeze. During respiration, the ingested air becomes humidified and warm. Such conditions allow the secretion and proper functioning of the mucus formed in the respiratory system. This prevents the delicate respiratory tissues from damage. Turbulence is created when the air enters the lungs due to the expansion of the diaphragm. Thus, the flow of turbulent air makes it difficult for these foreign particles to remain in the lungs.  

The bronchioles consist of the cilia (contains goblet cells that secrete mucus) that helps in the up and down movement of the mucus in the conducting airways. The mucus, along with the entrapped foreign particles, can be expelled by coughing and swallowing. The alveolar macrophages help to phagocytize the alien microbes.

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Answer Details:

Grade: High School

Subject: Health

Chapter: Immunology

Keywords:

Lungs, secretion, foreign particles, mucus, cilia, difficult, trapped microbes, sneeze, alveolar macrophages, microbes, coughing, swallowing.

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