Lungs

• What is the primary function of the human respiratory system?

  Gas exchange
• Where does gas exchange take place in the human body?

  In the lungs

  
• What gas is supplied to body cells for respiration?

  Oxygen
• What gas is removed from the blood during gas exchange?

  Carbon dioxide

  
• What are the main components of the human respiratory system that need to be labeled?

  • Intercostal muscle
  • Alveoli (singular = alveolus)

  
• How do alveoli contribute to gas exchange?

  They vastly increase the surface area of the lungs

  
• What are the adaptations of alveoli for gas exchange?

  1. Moist surface for easier gas dissolution
  2. Good blood supply for maintaining concentration gradient
  3. Thin walls for quick diffusion
• Why is a moist surface important for gas exchange in alveoli?

  It allows gases to dissolve more easily
• How does a good blood supply aid in gas exchange?

  It maintains a steep concentration gradient for rapid diffusion
• Why are thin walls important for alveoli?

  They shorten the distance for gases to travel
• What role does ventilation play in gas exchange?

  It helps maintain a steep concentration gradient
• What condition can result from smoking that affects the alveoli?

  Emphysema
• What happens to the alveoli in emphysema?

  They become damaged and inflamed

  
• What is the consequence of the walls of the alveoli breaking down?

  Loss of surface area
• How is emphysema classified in terms of disease type?

  As a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Is emphysema a reversible condition?

  No, it is progressive and irreversible
• What are common symptoms of emphysema?

  Continual shortness of breath, tiredness, and trouble coughing