Gas Exchange in the Lungs

• What is the primary function of the lungs in the circulatory system?

  To collect oxygen from the air and deliver it to the bloodstream.
• How does the heart interact with the lungs in the circulatory system?

  The heart pumps blood to the lungs to collect oxygen.
• What is the name of the tube through which air passes into the lungs?

  Trachea.
• What is the role of cartilage in the trachea?

  To prevent the trachea from collapsing.
• What are the main structures involved in the pathway of air to the lungs?

  • Trachea
  • Bronchi
  • Bronchioles
  • Alveoli
• What are the tiny air sacs in the lungs called?

  Alveoli.
• What is the primary function of alveoli in the lungs?

  To facilitate gas exchange between air and blood.
• What adaptations do alveoli have for efficient gas exchange?

  • Millions of alveoli provide a large surface area
  • Very thin walls for short diffusion distance
  • Good blood supply to maintain concentration gradients
• Why is a good blood supply important for alveoli?

  It helps maintain a steep concentration gradient for gas exchange.
• How does breathing affect the rate of gas exchange in the lungs?

  It increases the concentration gradients for oxygen and carbon dioxide.
• How does the structure of alveoli contribute to their function in gas exchange?

  • Large surface area for more gas exchange
  • Thin walls for rapid diffusion
  • Rich blood supply for efficient transport of gases