2.1-Rate of diffusion

How have mammals adapted for a large surface area to maximise gas exchange?

How have mammals adapted for a large surface area to maximise gas exchange?

Many alveoli and capillaries surrounding alveoli

How have mammals adapted for a thin diffusion difference to maximise gas exchange?

Alveoli and capillaries are made of flat squamous tissue

How have mammals adapted to have a concentration gradient to maximise gas exchange?

Breathing and circulation of blood maintains a high gradient between the alveolar air space and bloodstream

What are the anatomical adaptations in a mammal to maximise gas exchange?

Large surface area, high concentration gradient, thin exchange surface

What is the formula for flicks law?

Rate of diffusion= surface area x concentration difference/ diffusion distance

How would an increased thickness of gas exchange surface due to thicker mucus affect the rate of diffusion?

Molecules have to travel further so rate of diffusion decreases

How would the rate of diffusion be affected by a reduction in the concentration gradient between the alveolar air space and capillaries?

Fewer particles so less chance of them moving to a lower concentration so rate of diffusion would decrease

How would rate of diffusion be affected by damage to alveoli resulting in a reduction of their numbers?

A reduced surface area as less space for them to diffuse across so rate of diffusion decreases.

What do goblet cells do in the respiratory system?

Secrete mucin and create a protective mucus layer

What do cilliated epithelial cells do in the respiratory system?

Propel mucus up the airway to remove particulate material

Define epithelial

Cells that line the internal and external surfaces of the body

Define goblet cells

An epithelial cell that produces mucus

Define mucus

A substance that is produced by goblet cells and acts as a protective barrier