What is the primary mechanism by which oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the capillaries?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the mechanism of oxygen diffusion from the alveoli into the capillaries, specifically which process allows this transfer to occur. The key concepts are the different processes of transport across membranes.
Answer
Oxygen diffuses into the capillaries due to a pressure difference.
Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the capillaries primarily through the process of diffusion. The diffusion occurs because of a pressure difference in oxygen between the alveoli and capillaries.
Answer for screen readers
Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the capillaries primarily through the process of diffusion. The diffusion occurs because of a pressure difference in oxygen between the alveoli and capillaries.
More Information
This process is passive and does not require energy. The oxygen in the lungs is at a higher pressure than that in the blood, facilitating this movement.
Sources
- Exchanging Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide - Merck Manuals - merckmanuals.com
- Lungs and Respiratory System (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth - kidshealth.org
- Why does oxygen diffuse from the alveoli to the blood? - Quora - quora.com
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