Exchange and Transport in Animals

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the exchange and transport of materials in animals, including processes like diffusion, methods of respiration, and components of the circulatory system.

Diffusion

The process by which gases and dissolved substances move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

Osmosis

The movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Surface Area to Volume Ratio (SA:V)

A comparison of the surface area of an organism to its volume, affecting how easily it can exchange materials with the environment.

Alveoli

Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs; adapted for efficient diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Fick's Law

Describes the relationship between the rate of diffusion and the factors affecting it: rate of diffusion is proportional to surface area x concentration difference / thickness of the membrane.

Aerobic Respiration

The process of producing cellular energy involving oxygen; glucose is broken down with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water while releasing energy.

Anaerobic Respiration

A form of respiration that occurs without oxygen; results in less energy being produced and often produces lactic acid or ethanol.

Cardiac Output

The total volume of blood pumped by a ventricle every minute, calculated using heart rate and stroke volume.

Phagocytosis

The process by which certain cells can engulf and digest microorganisms or particles.

Haemoglobin

A red pigment in red blood cells that binds to oxygen for transport in the blood.