Gas Exchange in Organisms

Flashcards covering key concepts of gas exchange in respiratory and circulatory systems.

What are the major structural features of the respiratory system involved in gas exchange in mammals?

The major structural features are the alveoli which are small sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.

What is the function of capillaries in the circulatory system?

Capillaries link arteries to veins and facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Define cellular respiration.

Cellular respiration is the conversion of glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2) to produce water (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), and ATP.

What is the difference between internal and external respiration?

Internal respiration is gas exchange in capillary beds throughout the body tissues, while external respiration is gas exchange in the lungs.

What factors affect the rate of diffusion?

Factors include surface area, concentration gradient, and the length of the diffusion pathway.

Why do larger organisms need specialized gas exchange surfaces?

Larger organisms have a smaller surface area to volume ratio and cannot rely on simple diffusion for gas exchange.

How do aquatic animals obtain oxygen for gas exchange?

Aquatic animals use gills, which require a constant supply of water to facilitate gas exchange.

What is countercurrent exchange?

Countercurrent exchange is the movement of two fluids in opposite directions to maintain a high concentration gradient, enhancing gas exchange efficiency.

How is a high surface area for gas exchange obtained in lungs?

A high surface area is obtained through the presence of numerous alveoli.

What is required for effective gas exchange in alveoli?

Alveoli must have a thin layer of liquid to facilitate gas exchange.

What process allows air to be actively moved over gas exchange surfaces?

Ventilation, which includes inspiration (breathing in) and expiration (breathing out).