Gaseous Exchange in Humans

These flashcards cover key concepts related to gaseous exchange in humans, respiratory structures, mechanisms, and related diseases.

What is gaseous exchange?

The process by which respiratory gases are exchanged between external media and the body cells.

Why is gaseous exchange important?

It enables organisms to obtain oxygen for respiration and eliminates waste products like carbon dioxide.

What is ventilation?

The movement of gases to and from the respiratory surface, which is an active process.

What are respiratory surfaces?

Sites in the body where gaseous exchange occurs.

How does gaseous exchange occur?

Gaseous exchange occurs by diffusion across respiratory surfaces.

What characteristics do good respiratory surfaces have?

They have a large surface area to volume ratio, are kept moist, have thin walls, are rich in blood capillaries, and are well ventilated.

What happens in mammals when they breathe?

Mammals have a circulatory system that aids in transporting respiratory gases through branched blood vessels.

What are the respiratory organs in humans?

The lungs, with alveoli as the respiratory surfaces.

What is the function of the diaphragm?

It separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity and plays a crucial role in ventilation.

What occurs during inspiration?

The external intercostal muscles contract, the diaphragm flattens, and the thoracic cavity volume increases, causing air to flow into the lungs.

What happens during expiration?

The external intercostal muscles relax, the diaphragm relaxes, and the thoracic cavity volume decreases, forcing air out of the lungs.

What are the components of inhaled and exhaled air?

Inhaled air has 21% oxygen, while exhaled air has about 17% oxygen and higher carbon dioxide content.

What effect does smoking have on the respiratory system?

It damages respiratory tissues, increases mucus production, and can lead to diseases like bronchitis and emphysema.

What are common respiratory diseases?

Tuberculosis, asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema, whooping cough, and lung cancer.

What is bronchitis?

An infection of the bronchi that leads to excess mucus production, causing airflow blockage.

What is emphysema?

A condition caused by long-term bronchitis that damages alveoli and reduces lung surface area.

What are the treatments for lung cancer?

Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, and immunotherapy.

What preventive measures can be taken to avoid throat cancer?

Avoid smoking, maintain good oral hygiene, eat a fruit-rich diet, and get regular check-ups.