Respiratory System and Breathing Process

What is the primary function of the alveoli in the lungs?

What happens to the chest cavity when we breathe in?

What is the role of blood vessels in the alveoli?

What is the primary mechanism of oxygen delivery in small animals?

What is the function of haemoglobin in the human body?

What is the primary form in which carbon dioxide is transported in the blood?

What is the term for the residual volume of air that remains in the lungs during the breathing cycle?

What is the term for the blood cells that contain haemoglobin?

What is the purpose of the extensive network of blood vessels in the alveoli?

Respiratory System

The passage of air in the lungs divides into smaller tubes, terminating in balloon-like structures called alveoli.
Alveoli provide a surface for gas exchange, with an extensive network of blood vessels in their walls.

Breathing Cycle

When we inhale, the chest cavity expands, air is sucked into the lungs, and the alveoli fill with air.
During exhalation, the reverse process occurs.

Gas Exchange

Oxygen from inhaled air is taken up by blood in alveolar blood vessels and transported to the body's cells.
Carbon dioxide from the body is released into the alveoli through the bloodstream.

Residual Volume

The lungs always contain a residual volume of air, allowing time for oxygen absorption and carbon dioxide release.

Respiratory Pigments

In large animals, respiratory pigments are necessary for oxygen delivery to all body parts.
In humans, the respiratory pigment is haemoglobin, found in red blood corpuscles, with a high affinity for oxygen.
Haemoglobin takes up oxygen from the lungs and transports it to oxygen-deficient tissues, releasing it when needed.

Carbon Dioxide Transport

Carbon dioxide is more soluble in water than oxygen and is mostly transported in dissolved form in the blood.

This quiz covers the structure and function of the lungs, including the passage of air, alveoli, and gas exchange. It also reviews the breathing process, including the role of the ribs and diaphragm.