NASAL CAVITY Meaning and
Definition
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The nasal cavity is a complex anatomical structure located within the skull, specifically in the upper portion of the respiratory system. It is a hollow space that serves as a passage for inhaled and exhaled air.
Situated behind the nose, the nasal cavity is divided into two symmetrical parts by a midline nasal septum. It is lined with a specialized layer known as the respiratory epithelium, which consists of ciliated cells and goblet cells. These cells play a crucial role in warming, moistening, and filtering the air that enters the nasal cavity.
The nasal cavity also contains several important anatomical features. These include the superior, middle, and inferior nasal conchae, which are bony ridges that protrude from the walls of the cavity. These conchae create turbulence in the airflow, aiding in the conditioning of the air and optimizing its exchange of heat and moisture with the body.
Additionally, the nasal cavity is connected to several other structures. The paranasal sinuses, which are air-filled cavities located in the skull, drain into the nasal cavity. The nasolacrimal duct, responsible for draining tears from the eyes into the nasal cavity, is also connected to it.
Overall, the nasal cavity is a vital component of the respiratory system, performing functions that include filtration, humidification, and temperature regulation of inhaled air before it reaches the rest of the respiratory tract. It also plays a role in vocal resonance, odor detection, and immune defense by trapping foreign particles and facilitating the work of the olfactory receptors.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NASAL CAVITY
- basal cavity
- masal cavity
- jasal cavity
- hasal cavity
- nzsal cavity
- nssal cavity
- nwsal cavity
- nqsal cavity
- naaal cavity
- nazal cavity
- naxal cavity
- nadal cavity
- naeal cavity
- nawal cavity
- naszl cavity
- nassl cavity
- naswl cavity
- nasql cavity
- nasak cavity
Etymology of NASAL CAVITY
The word "nasal" is derived from the Latin word "nasus", meaning "nose". It found its way into the English language through Middle English and Old French. The word "cavity" is derived from the Latin word "cavus", meaning "hollow". It has been a part of the English language since the late 14th century. Thus, the term "nasal cavity" refers to the hollow space within the nose.
Similar spelling words for NASAL CAVITY
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