Anatomy and Physiology II 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The primary function of the bronchial tree is to distribute air to the lungs. The bronchial tree is a complex branching system of airways that begins at the trachea and extends into the lungs through the primary bronchi, secondary bronchi, and further into smaller bronchioles. Its structure allows for efficient airflow to the different regions of the lungs, ensuring that air reaches the alveoli, where gas exchange occurs.

This distribution is essential because it allows for a large surface area for gas exchange to happen within the alveoli. While the bronchial tree does contribute to other functions such as warming and humidifying the air and is involved in protecting the lungs from particulate matter, its main role focuses on channeling air into the respiratory zones of the lungs. Understanding this role helps clarify the importance of the bronchial tree in the overall respiratory process, including how effectively air can be delivered for oxygen absorption and carbon dioxide removal in the lungs.