Gas Exchange in the Lungs

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary reason inhaled air has a higher concentration of oxygen?

To facilitate the process of respiration within the body. (correct)
To cool the body's internal temperature during respiration.
To increase the speed of blood flow through the lungs.
To dilute other gases present in the atmosphere.

Which process takes place in the lungs during gas exchange?

Oxygen is released into the air, and nitrogen is absorbed into the blood.
Oxygen is absorbed into the blood, and carbon dioxide is released. (correct)
Carbon dioxide is absorbed into the blood, and oxygen is released.
Nitrogen is converted into oxygen for use by the body.

What is the fate of carbon dioxide after gas exchange in the lungs?

It is used by the body to regulate blood pressure.
It is exhaled as a waste product. (correct)
It is stored in the lungs for later use.
It is converted back into oxygen to be reused by the body.

Why is gas exchange in the lungs essential for the human body?

It supplies the body with oxygen and removes carbon dioxide. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What would happen if gas exchange in the lungs were to stop?

Carbon dioxide would build up in the body, leading to potential health issues. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Inhaled air is composed primarily of nitrogen and oxygen. What happens to the nitrogen?

Nitrogen is exhaled back out without being absorbed during gas exchange. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the concentration gradients of oxygen and carbon dioxide during gas exchange?

Oxygen moves from an area of higher concentration in the inhaled air to an area of lower concentration in the blood, while carbon dioxide moves in the opposite direction. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which component of blood is primarily responsible for carrying oxygen absorbed during gas exchange?

Red blood cells (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following might directly impair the process of gas exchange in the lungs?

Blockage of the airways (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does the body adjust its respiration rate during physical activity?

It increases the respiration rate to supply more oxygen and remove more carbon dioxide. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the diaphragm in the process of breathing?

It contracts to increase the volume of the chest cavity during inhalation. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the composition of air in the alveoli compared to the composition of inhaled air?

Alveolar air has a higher concentration of carbon dioxide and lower concentration of oxygen than inhaled air. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does the surface area of the lungs impact gas exchange?

A larger surface area allows for more efficient gas exchange. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which environmental factor can significantly affect the efficiency of gas exchange in the lungs?

Air pollution (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why is the respiratory system lined with a moist membrane?

To allow gases to dissolve and diffuse more efficiently. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between altitude and respiration?

The respiration rate increases at higher altitudes due to decreased oxygen concentration. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a direct result of oxygen being absorbed into the blood during gas exchange?

Support for cellular respiration (C) Signup and view all the answers

How do diseases like emphysema affect gas exchange in the lungs?

They destroy the walls of the alveoli, reducing the surface area for gas exchange. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What mechanism ensures that inhaled air reaches the alveoli for gas exchange?

Diffusion of gases (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does the structure of alveoli support their function in gas exchange?

They are thin-walled and closely associated with capillaries to facilitate diffusion. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Gas Exchange

The process in the lungs where oxygen is absorbed into the blood and carbon dioxide is released.

Respiration

A process where oxygen from inhaled air is used to produce energy, releasing carbon dioxide as a waste product.

Inhaled Air

Air entering the body through the respiratory system.

Oxygen

A gas vital for cellular respiration; abundant in inhaled air.

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Lungs

An organ in the respiratory system responsible for gas exchange.