Based on your knowledge of the anatomy of the lower respiratory tract, where is the most likely location for an aspirated (inhaled) piece of food to lodge and why?
A) The alveoli, because they reside at the terminal end of the bronchioles
B) The tertiary bronchioles, because they are less than 1 mm wide
C) The right bronchus, because it is slightly wider and more vertical than the left bronchus
D) The carina, because it is situated at the end of the trachea

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The right bronchus is slightly wider and more vertical than the left bronchus, making it more likely for an aspirated piece of food to become lodged there. The tertiary bronchioles and alveoli are too small for large pieces of food to become lodged, and the carina is not a location where food would typically become lodged.

Based on Your Knowledge of the Anatomy of the Lower