5.11 COPING WITH EXTREMES

Question 1

What are the adaptations of humans to high altitudes?

Answer 1

1. Large rib cage for larger lung capacity
2. More small airways and alveoli for bigger surface area for gas exchange
3. Extra capillaries in the lungs so more blood cells can reach lungs
4. Extra red blood cells to carry more oxygen

Question 2

What are the adaptations of diving animals?

Answer 2

1. Apnea to prevent drowning
2. Bradycardia to pump lesser blood
3. Capillary shutdown to stop sending blood to some organs to save oxygen
4. Large myoglobin stores in muscles to store oxygen