Gas Exchange and Respiratory Systems Overview

Gas Exchange

Process ensuring O2 enters and CO2 exits cells.

Aerobic Organisms

Require oxygen for cellular respiration.

Cellular Respiration

Releases energy for cellular functions.

CO2 Waste Product

Byproduct of cellular respiration needing disposal.

Respiratory Surface Area

Must be large for adequate gas exchange.

Moist Environment

Necessary for O2 and CO2 transport.

Unicellular Organisms

Gas exchange occurs via diffusion through membranes.

Diffusion

Effective over short distances in gas exchange.

Specialized Respiratory Systems

Adaptations for gas exchange in complex organisms.

Skin Respiration

Used by earthworms; requires moist skin.

Spiracles

External pores in insects for gas exchange.

Tracheae

Internal tubes in insects for air transport.

Ventilation Mechanism

Movement of air over respiratory surfaces.

Counter-Current Flow

Blood flows opposite to water in fish gills.

Gills

Respiratory structures in fish for gas exchange.

Capillary Vessels

Tiny blood vessels facilitating gas transport.

Metabolic Needs

Requirements for energy and waste removal.

Circulatory System

Transports gases and nutrients throughout the body.

Respiratory Systems Variation

Different systems based on organism's habitat.

Feathery Tissue Structures

Increase surface area for gas exchange.

Dissection Quiz

Assessment following pig dissection.