01 / Location & anatomical relationships
In the middle of your face, above your mouth.
02 / Structure & organization
The nasal septum divides the nasal cavity, and curved conchae increase its internal surface area. Much of the lining is respiratory mucosa, while the olfactory region occupies a smaller superior area. The cavity continues posteriorly into the nasopharynx.
03 / Function
Tiny hairs and mucus help trap particles in the air.
04 / Mechanism
Air passes through a moist space inside the nose before moving toward the throat. This helps warm and moisten it. Smell-sensitive cells high inside the nose respond to molecules in the air and send messages to the brain.
Working together: respiratory system
Your diaphragm contracts to help draw air in. Air reaches your lungs, where oxygen crosses into the blood through the walls of tiny air sacs.
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Connect structure with function
Air conditioning and smell are distinct nasal functions. Mucus and cilia work together in particle clearance; olfactory receptor neurons respond to odorant molecules.
Check your understanding
Locate the nose in relation to its neighbors. Explain how the structural features described above support its function, then distinguish it from a nearby structure with a different role.
Keep learning
Continue with OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology for system-level study. This atlas is educational and has not undergone independent medical peer review.