Describe and explain two ways in which alveoli in the mammalian lung are adapted for efficient gaseous exchange

  1. Alveoli in the mammalian lung are thin walled to allow the quick passage of gases, for example oxygen and carbon dioxide.

  2. Alveoli in the mammalian lung have a large surface area which allows for the diffusion of multiple gas molecules simultaneously, thus increasing the speed of diffusion across their surface. 

GA

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the process of semi-conservative DNA replication.


Why do insulin levels rise in the body following a meal, and what effects does the insulin have?


Each amino acid contains a different R group specific to the amino acid. Describe how the R group of an amino acid contributes to the tertiary structure of a protein. (4 marks)


Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a chemical found in pufferfish which binds to voltage-gated sodium channels causing inactivation via a conformational change. Poisoning can result in paralysis leading to death. How might this occur? (4 marks)