What is the primary function of the alveoli in the respiratory system?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the main purpose of alveoli within the respiratory system, specifically focusing on their role in gas exchange.
Answer
The primary function of the alveoli is gas exchange: oxygen in and carbon dioxide out.
The primary function of the alveoli is to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and the blood during the process of breathing in and out.
Answer for screen readers
The primary function of the alveoli is to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and the blood during the process of breathing in and out.
More Information
Alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs where the exchange of gases takes place. They are crucial for ventilating the blood with oxygen and removing carbon dioxide.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume alveoli play a role in filtering air or in the mechanical process of breathing, but their main function is specifically the exchange of gases.
Sources
- The web page with info on - Alveoli - cancer.gov
- Alveoli Function, Structure, and Lung Disorders - Healthline - healthline.com
- Alveoli: Function, Lung Anatomy, and Causes of Damage - verywellhealth.com
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