6.6 structure of the human exchange system

Question 1

why is the mammalian lungs located inside the body?

Answer 1

air is not dense enough to support & protect the structure, and therefore the body will lose a great amount of water & dry out

Question 2

how is the trachea supported?

Answer 2

by rings of cartilage to prevent collapsing

Question 3

describe the 3 features of the bronchi.

Answer 3

• supported by cartilage rings
• each leads to 1 lung
• produces mucus to trap particles & cilia moves it towards the throat

Question 4

what are bronchioles & what are some special features of it to control air flow?

Answer 4

• branching subdivisions of bronchi
• muscle wall lined with epithelial cells & allows constriction

Question 5

describe the 3 structural features of the alveoli.

Answer 5

• air sacs lined with epithelium cells
• collagen & elastic fibres in between allows alveoli to stretch
• alveolar membrane is the site of gas exchange surface