Note
Studied by 25 peopleGas exchange
1.Describe the process of gas exchange between the alveoli to the lung capillaries
Gas exchange relies on concentration gradient between (blood in the capillaries,) and (air in the alveoli,) containing different concentrations of CO2 and O2.
Blood entering the lungs through capillaries via pulmonary arteries contains high CO2 and low O2 → air is exhaled out the alveoli contains high CO2
Blood existing lungs through pulmonary vein via capillaries contains high O2 and low CO2 → air is inhaled containing high O2
2.Label the structures of an alveolus
3.Explain how structures and conditions of the alveoli aid in the exchange of gases
Structure/conditions | How it aids exchange |
Thin walls (both alveoli and capillary) | Less distance for gases to diffuse through, increases rate of diffusion |
Large number of alveoli with large surface area | More surface for gas to diffuse, increases rate of diffusion |
Surface of alveoli are moist | Allows gasses to dissolve, increases rate of diffusion |
Have continuous supply of blood through capillaries | Maintains high concentration gradients, increases rate of diffusion |
Continuous inhalation and exhalation | Maintains high concentration gradients, increases rate of diffusion |