Gas Exchange in the Lungs

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What is the role of alveoli in the gas exchange process?

Contain a single layer of alveolar cells

Encircling each alveolus

Production of oxygen

Increasing surface area for gas exchange (correct)

Which factor influences the gas exchange process according to Dalton's law?

Surface area of the alveoli

Thickness of the alveolar wall

Partial pressure gradient (correct)

Diffusion coefficient

How does emphysema affect gas exchange in the lungs?

Decreases diffusion coefficient

Increases surface area for gas exchange

Reduces surface area for gas exchange (correct)

Results in lung collapse

Which condition would lead to an increased thickness of the alveolar walls?

Pulmonary fibrosis Signup and view all the answers

Why is the diffusion coefficient higher for CO2 compared to O2 in gas exchange?

CO2 diffuses more easily across membranes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor that keeps alveoli open?

Pulmonary surfactant Signup and view all the answers

Which factor promotes the collapse of alveoli?

Elasticity of stretched pulmonary connective tissue Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the measure of effort needed to stretch or distend the lungs?

Compliance Signup and view all the answers

What condition is characterized by decreased lung compliance?

Pulmonary fibrosis Signup and view all the answers

What effect does parasympathetic stimulation have on the airways?

Bronchoconstriction Signup and view all the answers

In which condition is there a struggle to breathe due to insufficient surfactant production?

Respiratory distress syndrome of the newborn Signup and view all the answers

What is the volume of air that can be inspired at the end of a normal quiet expiration?

3500 ml Signup and view all the answers

Which lung volume represents the volume of air in the lungs at the end of normal passive expiration?

2200 ml Signup and view all the answers

In spirometry, what does FEV1 represent?

Volume of air that can be expired during the first second Signup and view all the answers

Which management approach is NOT recommended for shortness of breath?

Antibiotics Signup and view all the answers

In patients with obstructive lung diseases like asthma or COPD, which spirometry parameter is expected to be decreased?

FEV1/FVC ratio Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum volume of air that can be moved out during a single breath following a maximal inspiration?

4500 ml Signup and view all the answers

Gas Exchange in the Lungs

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