Describe how the lungs are adapted for gas exchange (6 marks)

-There are a large number of alveoli, increasing the surface area available for gas exchange. The alveoli have many infoldings, further increasing the surface area.- The walls of the alveoli are thin, they are one cell thick. This reduces the diffusion distance for gases, increasing the rate of gas exchange.- The alveoli are surrounded by a dense capillary network. This means gases diffuse into the blood, where they are rapidly removed from the alveoli, helping to maintain a concentration gradient for the diffusion of gases.- The alveoli are moist, which also aids the diffusion of gases.Key themes; large surface area, short diffusion distance, moist surfaces, capillary network

AA
Answered by Anna A. Biology tutor

34766 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How does the kidney filter blood?


What are the causes of genetic mutations ?


What are the four levels of protein structure? Please name and describe each level.


Describe how a reflex occurs?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences