7 Questions
What is the primary function of the respiratory system?
The primary function of the respiratory system is the supply of oxygen to the blood, which then delivers oxygen to all parts of the body.
Where does the exchange of gases take place in the respiratory system?
The exchange of gases takes place at the alveoli.
How many alveoli does an average adult's lungs contain?
An average adult's lungs contain about 600 million alveoli.
List the four principle functions of the respiratory system.
- Ventilate the lungs, 2. Extract oxygen from the air and transfer it to the bloodstream, 3. Excrete carbon dioxide and water vapour, 4. Maintain the acid-base of the blood.
What are the approximate percentages of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide in inspired air?
Inspired air contains approximately 79% nitrogen, 20% oxygen, and 0.04% carbon dioxide.
What are the approximate percentages of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide in expired air?
Expired air contains approximately 79% nitrogen, 16% oxygen, and 4% carbon dioxide.
Describe the path that carbon dioxide follows when being exhaled from the body.
Carbon dioxide in the blood diffuses into the alveoli and follows the same path out of the lungs when you exhale.
Study Notes
Respiratory System
- The primary function of the respiratory system is to supply oxygen to the blood, which delivers oxygen to all parts of the body.
- The respiratory system functions while breathing, involving the exchange of gases at the alveoli.
- The average adult's lungs contain approximately 600 million alveoli, which are spongy, air-filled sacs surrounded by capillaries.
Gas Exchange
- Inhaled oxygen passes into the alveoli and diffuses through capillaries into the arterial blood.
- Waste-rich blood from the veins releases its carbon dioxide into the alveoli, which is then exhaled.
Principle Functions of the Respiratory System
- Ventilation of the lungs
- Extraction of oxygen from the air and transfer to the bloodstream
- Excretion of carbon dioxide and water vapour
- Maintenance of the acid-base balance of the blood
Composition of Air
Inspired Air
- 79% nitrogen
- 20% oxygen
- 0.04% carbon dioxide
- Water vapour and trace gases
Expired Air
- 79% nitrogen
- 16% oxygen
- 4% carbon dioxide
- Water vapour and trace gases
Learn about the primary function of the respiratory system, its mechanism of gas exchange, and the structure of alveoli. Test your knowledge on how oxygen is supplied to the body.
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