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Chapter 39: Q.17 (page 1147)

How does the structure of alveoli maximize gas exchange?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The sac-like structure of the alveoli increases their surface area.

Step by step solution

01

Step 1. Introduction

The alveoli are where the lungs and the blood exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide during the process of breathing in and breathing out. Oxygen breathed in from the air passes through the alveoli and into the blood and travels to the tissues throughout the body.

02

Step 2. Explanation

  • The human airway is composed of the nose, throat, nasal cavity, pharynx, trachea, epiglottis, alveoli, bronchioles, bronchi, and lungs.
  • A small sac called alveoli helps with gas exchange.
  • Alveoli have thin walls and a close network of blood arteries to allow gas exchange between blood and air-filled alveoli.
  • They have a balloon-like structure to maximize surface area in exchange for gas.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

How would increased airway resistance affect intrapleural pressure during inhalation?

The majority of oxygen in the blood is transported by ________.

a. dissolution in the blood

b. being carried as bicarbonate ions

c. binding to blood plasma

d. binding to hemoglobin

Air is warmed and humidified in the nasal passages. This helps to ________. a. ward off infection

b. decrease sensitivity during breathing

c. prevent damage to the lungs

d. all of the above

The kidneys are responsible for removing excess H+ ions from the blood. If the kidneys fail, what would happen to blood pH and to hemoglobin affinity for oxygen?

Of the following, which does not explain why the partial pressure of oxygen is lower in the lung than in the external air?

a. Air in the lung is humidified; therefore, water vapor pressure alters the pressure.

b. Carbon dioxide mixes with oxygen.

c. Oxygen is moved into the blood and is headed to the tissues.

d. Lungs exert a pressure on the air to reduce the oxygen pressure.
See all solutions

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