Same chapter3 marksDifficulty: Medium
How is an alveolus adapted for gaseous exchange?
The Respiratory System
3 marksDifficulty: Medium
Why is the trachea supported by rings of cartilage, and why are the rings incomplete at the back?
Original Khojo Papers practice question — not from a past board paper.
Answer
The C-shaped rings of cartilage keep the trachea permanently open so that the air passage cannot collapse when the pressure inside falls during inspiration. They are incomplete at the back so that the oesophagus, which lies immediately behind, can expand when a bolus of food passes down it.
No citable source has been recorded for this record. Treat it as practice material, not as fact.
Explanation
The gap is filled by smooth muscle.
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