How is the structure of the lung adapted for respiratory function?

The lung can be divided into different sections regarding its function. The tube that connects the airway to the lungs is called the trachea, which is made of cartilage rings. These are flexible, and allow smooth transition of air. They are adapted by having tiny cilia, which are like tiny hairs that trap dust and woft it upward the respiratory tract, preventing dust entering the lungs. The trachea links to bronchi, tubes that connect the trachea to the lobes of the lungs, of which humans have 2 lobes, one on each side. Bronchi spread out and the diameter of the tubes decrease, creating structures called bronchioles. Bronchioles end in alveoli. Alveoli are highly folded sacs covered in blood capillaries that allow fast diffusion of gases, adapted as the folds increase surface area and they have a very thin membrane for rapid diffusion.

RI
Answered by Rebecca I. Biology tutor

18397 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain how bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics


How does filteration occur in the kidney?


Photosynthesis occurs in the guard cells but not the epidermal cells. Explain why this is important in the control of the rate of transpiration in the plant


What is homeostasis?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning