Respiration and Gas Exchange

These flashcards cover the key concepts and details from the notes on respiration and gas exchange.

What is the definition of respiration?

A chemical reaction that involves the breakdown of food, mainly glucose, to release energy.

What are the two types of respiration?

Aerobic respiration and anaerobic respiration.

What is the equation for aerobic respiration?

C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O.

What does anaerobic respiration in animals produce?

Lactic acid (C6H12O6 → 2C3H6O3).

What are the advantages of anaerobic respiration?

Releases energy for cells/tissues/muscles in absence of oxygen.

What are the disadvantages of anaerobic respiration?

Causes lactic acid buildup, leading to muscle fatigue and builds up an oxygen debt.

What is the outcome of anaerobic respiration in plants and fungi?

Produces ethanol and carbon dioxide (C6H12O6 → 2C2H5OH + 2CO2).

During exercise, what changes occur in heart rate and breathing?

Increase in heart rate, breathing rate, and depth of breathing.

How is breathing rate calculated?

Count the number of breaths in a specific time frame and multiply to find per minute.

Why does heart rate remain high after exercise?

To remove lactic acid and pay off the oxygen debt.

What stimulates an increase in heart rate and breathing rate during exercise?

High energy demand by muscles causing more CO2 production and lower blood pH.

How are the alveoli adapted for gas exchange?

Many alveoli provide a larger surface area, thin walls for shorter diffusion distances, and have good ventilation and blood flow.

What are the components of inhaled and exhaled air?

Inhaled air: 21% O2, 0.04% CO2; Exhaled air: 16% O2, 4% CO2.

What is the effect of temperature on inhaled and exhaled air?

Exhaled air is warmer due to heat produced during respiration.

What is the role of respirometer in measuring respiration?

It measures the rate of respiration by gauging volume changes in air due to CO2 absorption.