Adapt

• how are the alveoli adapted for gas exchange??

  1. thin exchange surface
  2. large SA
• Explain thin exchange surface (alveoli adaptation)?

  the alveolar epithelium only one cell thick = short diffusion pathway - this speeds up diffusion
• explain large surface area (alveoli adaptation)?

  large number of alveoli = there is a large surface area for gas exchange
• what is there also?

  a steep concentration gradient of oxygen and CO2 between the alveoli and capillaries = increases rate of diffusion
• What is the steep conc gradient of oxygen and CO2 between the alveoli and capillaries constantly maintained by?


  The FLOW OF BLOOD and VENTILATION