Gas Exchange Flashcards
1
Q
Adaptations of the alveoli for gas exchange
A
Thin walls to reduce diffusion distance
Large surface area for maximum rate of gas diffusion
Moist surface gases dissolve in water to diffuse
Rich blood supply- to remove diffused gases and maintain a steep concentration gradient for further diffusion
2
Q
Why does oxygen diffuse from the alveoli to the capillaries/blood
A
Because the pressure of oxygen is high in the alveoli but low in the capillaries allowing it to diffuse
3
Q
Explain and describe the limewater- CO2 experiment
A
Clear liquid in test tube is lime water exhaled at is blown through a tube into the liquid. The liquid becomes cloudy from the CO2
Lime water only goes cloudy when exposed to CO2
