Question
The cilia in the upper respiratory tract primarily help in:
This question was previously asked in
RRB ALP 2025 CBT 2 Mechanic Motor Vehicle Question Paper (28-Jul-2026) (Shift 1)
The correct answer is
Removing harmful particles from inhaled air
Understanding Cilia Function in the Upper Respiratory Tract
The cilia present in the upper respiratory tract are microscopic, hair-like projections lining the airways. Their primary role is crucial for maintaining airway cleanliness and preventing infections.
Mechanism of Cilia Action
- Cilia beat in a coordinated, wave-like motion.
- This motion propels mucus, which traps dust, pathogens, and other inhaled debris, upwards towards the pharynx.
- This process, often called the mucociliary escalator, effectively clears the airways.
Analysis of Options
- Option 1 & 2 (Absorbing oxygen, Gas exchange): These functions occur primarily in the alveoli of the lungs, not in the upper respiratory tract via cilia.
- Option 3 (Pumping blood to lungs): This is the function of the heart, unrelated to respiratory tract cilia.
- Option 4 (Removing harmful particles from inhaled air): This accurately describes the main function of cilia in the upper respiratory tract, trapping and removing irritants and pathogens via mucus.
Therefore, the primary role of cilia in the upper respiratory tract is the removal of harmful particles from inhaled air.
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