The hollow space behind the nose where inhaled air is filtered, warmed, and humidified before reaching the lungs.
Structure
The cavity is divided by the nasal septum and bordered by three curved bones called conchae on each lateral wall. The conchae increase surface area and create turbulent airflow, improving filtering and conditioning.
Lining
A mucous membrane covers the cavity. Goblet cells produce mucus that traps dust and microbes, while cilia sweep the mucus toward the throat. A dense vascular network warms incoming air.
Olfaction
The roof of the cavity contains olfactory epithelium with receptor neurons whose axons pass through the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone to reach the olfactory bulb.
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