What term refers to the small branches of the bronchi that carry air in the lungs?

The term that refers to the small branches of the bronchi that carry air in the lungs is "bronchioles." These are the tiniest air passages within the lungs that branch out from the larger bronchi, allowing for the distribution of air to the alveoli, where gas exchange occurs.

Understanding this term is vital in the context of respiratory anatomy, as bronchioles play a crucial role in ensuring that oxygen reaches the alveoli efficiently while also helping to expel carbon dioxide from the lungs. The structural differences between bronchi and bronchioles are also significant; bronchi have cartilage support and a larger diameter, while bronchioles are smaller and lack cartilage, instead having a more muscular wall that can constrict or expand to regulate airflow.