Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

What function do incomplete rings of cartilage serve in the trachea?

1. Provide rigidity

2. Facilitate movement during swallowing

3. Enhance communication with the lungs

4. Prevent collapse while allowing flexibility

The correct answer is: Prevent collapse while allowing flexibility

The incomplete rings of cartilage in the trachea serve the crucial function of preventing collapse while allowing flexibility. These C-shaped cartilaginous structures maintain the trachea's open airway, ensuring that it remains unobstructed for airflow into the lungs. The open portion of the rings allows the trachea to flex and adjust during activities such as swallowing or when the neck moves, accommodating the esophagus, which lies posterior to the trachea. This design enables the trachea to maintain its structural integrity under varying pressures while adapting to the physiological needs, such as changes in posture or the mechanics of breathing. The capability for slight flexibility is essential as it prevents restrictions to airflow, which could occur if the trachea were entirely rigid.