what is bronchi

Bronchi are the two large tubes that connect to the trachea and direct the air you breathe to your right and left lungs. They are in your chest and are an essential part of your respiratory system. Bronchi are made up of cartilage and smooth muscle, and they are lined by mucous membranes. The bronchi branch into smaller and smaller passageways until they terminate in tiny air sacs called alveoli. The left bronchus carries air to your left lung, and the right bronchus carries air to your right lung. Bronchi are responsible for protecting your lungs from possible infection or injury. Mucus cells lining the bronchi moisturize the air as it enters your lungs, and the mucus can capture foreign particles. The cilia lining the bronchi help move mucus out of your lungs, which helps keep your bronchi clean and healthy.