Respiratory Systems in Multicellular Organisms

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on respiratory systems, focusing on the mechanisms of gas exchange in various organisms.

What are the two types of respiratory systems discussed in the lecture?

Passive and active respiratory systems.

What does partial pressure ('P') refer to in respiratory physiology?

It is proportional to the concentration of a given gas in a given medium.

How does temperature affect the solubility of oxygen in water?

Warm water holds less O2 than cold water.

Why is the low solubility of O2 in water a challenge for animals?

Because their cells are surrounded by water while their source of O2 may be in the air.

What are the two solutions for respiratory systems to manage gas exchange?

Use of passive respiratory systems with open compartments or active respiratory systems with advection-powered gas exchanges.

What is the purpose of respiratory pigments in respiratory systems?

They bind to O2, allowing for increased total O2 in the hemolymph or blood.

How do insects obtain O2 and eliminate CO2?

Using the tracheal system, a network of tubes extending throughout their body.

What is the function of the diaphragm in mammalian lungs?

Contraction draws air into the lungs, while relaxation pushes air out.

What is the role of hemoglobin in oxygen transport?

It binds O2 cooperatively, increasing affinity for additional O2 molecules.

What is countercurrent exchange in fish gills?

It ensures a gradient for gas exchange across the capillary bed, maximizing O2 extraction.

What happens when CO2 levels are high around hemoglobin?

It promotes the release of O2 by decreasing hemoglobin's affinity for O2.

What types of respiratory organs do vertebrates use?

Lungs, gills, or skin.

What distinguishes active respiratory systems from passive systems?

Active systems rely on collaboration between the respiratory organ and the circulatory system.

How do gills function as a respiratory organ?

They are capillary-rich evaginations of the body suspended in water, facilitating gas exchange.

How does diffusion contribute to gas exchange in respiratory systems?

Gases move from areas of high partial pressure to low partial pressure, aiding in O2 uptake and CO2 release.

What physiological effect would capillary disintegration at a snake bite site have?

It could lead to damage to related respiratory capillaries and affect oxygen availability.