The Nasal Conchae

What is the purpose of the conchae? How do they increase turbulance of air flow and why would this be useful?
The conchae, or turbinates, are long curled bones protruding into the nasal passages. They divide the nasal airway into three groove-like air passages –and are responsible for forcing inhaled air to flow in a steady, regular pattern around the largest possible surface of cilia and climate controlling tissue. They are lined with pseudo-stratified columnar ciliated respiratory epithelium. The turbinates comprise most of the mucosal tissue of the nose. They contain many airflow pressure and temperature sensing nerve receptors, which are linked to the trigeminal, or fifth cranial nerve.
As a whole, the turbinates are responsible for filtration, heating and humidification of air inhaled through the nose. As air passes over the turbinate tissues it is heated to body temperature, humidified (up to 98% water saturation) and filtered.
There are three turbinates. The inferior turbinates are the largest. They are responsible for airflow direction, humidification, heating, and filtering of air inhaled through the nose.
The smaller middle turbinates project downwards over the openings of the maxillary and ethmoid sinuses, and act as buffers to protect the sinuses from coming in direct contact with pressurized nasal airflow. Some areas of the middle turbinates are also innervated by the olfactory bulb. Most inhaled airflow travels between the inferior turbinate and middle turbinate.
The superior turbinates are smaller still. They are connected to the middle turbinates by nerve endings, and serve to protect the olfactory bulb. The superior turbinates also protect the nerve axons which come through the cribriform plate into the nose.
The respiratory epithelium which covers the Lamina propria of the turbinates is part of the body’s first line of immunological defense. The respiratory epithelium is partially comprised of mucus producing goblet cells. This secreted mucus covers the nasal cavities, and serves as a filter, by trapping air-borne particles larger than 2 to 3 micrometers. The respiratory epithelium also serves as a means of access for the lymphatic system which protects the body from being infected by viruses or bacteria.
The turbinates provide necessary humidity to the delicate olfactory epithelium. If this epithelial layer becomes too dry or irritated, its function will be impaired. By directing and deflecting airflow across the mucosal surface of the inner nose, the turbinates are able to propel the inspired air. This, coupled with the humidity and filtration provided by the turbinates, helps to carry more scent molecules towards the high, narrow regions of the nasal airways, where olfaction nerve receptors are located.
If the turbinates become swollen, it leads to blockage of nasal breathing. Allergies, exposure to environmental irritants, persistent inflammation within the sinuses, or deformity or deviation of the nasal septum can lead to turbinate swelling.
Most information gathered from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turbinate