Select the answer below that best describes how the lungs are kept free of germs and dirt from the air.
(1 point)
© The alveoli act as filters for the lungs collecting particles of dirt and germs to be exhaled when the diaphragm relaxes.
© Tiny hairs known as cilia clean the trachea of dirt and germs before it can enter the lungs
• Hairs known as cilia, found inside the alveoli, collect the dirt and germs to be expelled from the lungs
Mucus found in the bronchial tubes collects dirt and germs that gets into your lungs. Tiny hairs called cilia work to sweep out the debris collected to keep your lungs clean
© Tiny hairs known as cilia clean the trachea of dirt and germs before it can enter the lungs
The answer is: © Tiny hairs known as cilia clean the trachea of dirt and germs before it can enter the lungs.
The answer that best describes how the lungs are kept free of germs and dirt from the air is:
© Tiny hairs known as cilia clean the trachea of dirt and germs before it can enter the lungs.
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand the different mechanisms involved in keeping the lungs clean:
1. The alveoli, which are tiny air sacs in the lungs, are responsible for gas exchange. They do not act as filters for collecting particles of dirt and germs. Instead, their main function is to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide with the bloodstream.
2. Cilia are hair-like structures that line the trachea, or the windpipe. Their purpose is to sweep away dirt and germs before they can enter the lungs. This mechanism helps to protect the delicate lung tissue from foreign particles.
3. The alveoli do not contain hairs known as cilia. Cilia are only found in the trachea and other parts of the respiratory system. Their function is to move in coordinated waves, pushing mucus and any trapped particles towards the throat so that they can be swallowed or coughed out.
4. Mucus, a sticky substance, is produced by the bronchial tubes. It acts as a trap for dirt and germs that enter the respiratory system. Cilia work in conjunction with mucus to sweep out the collected debris, keeping the lungs clean.
Therefore, the correct answer is: © Tiny hairs known as cilia clean the trachea of dirt and germs before it can enter the lungs.