Which are the fragile structures that help to warm and humidify the air?

The nasal conchae, also referred to as turbinate bones, are delicate bony structures located within the nasal cavity. Their primary function is to warm, humidify, and filter the air as it passes through the nasal passages before it reaches the lungs. The conchae help achieve this by increasing the surface area inside the nasal cavity and creating turbulent airflow. This turbulence allows for greater contact between the inhaled air and the moist surfaces of the nasal tissues, facilitating optimal warming and humidification.

This function is crucial as it prepares the air for the sensitive tissues of the respiratory system, protecting them from dryness and extreme temperatures. Other structures related to the nasal cavity, such as the nasal bones, palatine bones, and vomer, do not play a direct role in the warming and humidifying processes; instead, they serve more structural or supportive functions within facial anatomy.