How are alveoli adapted for efficient gas exchange?
Question
How are alveoli adapted for efficient gas exchange?
Solution
Alveoli are specialized structures in the lungs that allow for efficient gas exchange between the air and the bloodstream. Here's how they are adapted for this function:
-
Large Surface Area: Alveoli are tiny sacs within our lungs. However, if you were to spread them out, they would cover an area nearly the size of a tennis court. This large surface area increases the amount of gas that can be exchanged at any one time.
-
Thin Walls: The walls of the alveoli are extremely thin (about 0.2 micrometers). This short distance allows gases to quickly diffuse across the alveolar and capillary walls.
-
Moist Lining: The alveoli
Similar Questions
Describe how gas exchange occurs at the alveoli
List three properties of alveoli that make them an efficient gas exchange surface
Which one of the following characteristics would you expect to find in alveoli to make them efficient at gas exchange?Small surface areaThick wallsRich supply of blood capillariesLong diffusion distance
What is the function of the alveoli?give off CO2 from bloodneither of theseBoth take in O2 from air and give off CO2 from bloodtake in O2 from the air
The alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange takes place.
Upgrade your grade with Knowee
Get personalized homework help. Review tough concepts in more detail, or go deeper into your topic by exploring other relevant questions.