Question

select all that apply
list three functions of the nasal mucosa.
allows gas exchange between air and blood
facilitates coughing and yawning reflexes
warms inhaled air
moistens inhaled air
entraps small particles

Explanation:

• Warms inhaled air: The nasal mucosa has a rich blood supply. As air passes over it, heat is transferred from the blood vessels to the air, warming it.
• Moistens inhaled air: The nasal mucosa secretes mucus. This mucus adds moisture to the inhaled air, which is important for the respiratory system (e.g., preventing the lungs from drying out).
• Entraps small particles: The mucus produced by the nasal mucosa can trap small particles such as dust, pollen, and bacteria. This helps to filter the air we breathe.

Gas exchange between air and blood occurs in the alveoli of the lungs, not in the nasal mucosa. Coughing and yawning reflexes are not functions of the nasal mucosa. Coughing is mainly a protective reflex of the lower respiratory tract (e.g., trachea, bronchi) to clear irritants, and yawning is a complex reflex that is not directly related to the nasal mucosa's main functions.

Answer:

• warms inhaled air
• moistens inhaled air
• entraps small particles