GED Science Practice

What is the function of a bronchial tube?

1. taking out and examining living tissue from a living thing

2. unit of heat defined as the quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of water

3. branching off from the trachea into the lungs

4. an electrical device used to store electrical charge

The correct answer is: branching off from the trachea into the lungs

The function of a bronchial tube is to branch off from the trachea and direct air into the lungs. When air is inhaled, it travels through the trachea and enters the bronchial tubes, which further divide into smaller bronchi and bronchioles, leading to the alveoli where gas exchange occurs. This branching structure is essential for the distribution of air throughout the lungs, allowing oxygen to reach all areas where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide to be expelled. This anatomical pathway is crucial for respiratory function, ensuring that the lungs can effectively take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide, which is vital for maintaining the body’s pH balance and overall metabolic functioning. The bronchial tubes play a key role in protecting the lungs from foreign particles and pathogens as well, as they contain mucus and cilia that help trap and move particles out of the respiratory system.