8.1 :Gas exchange in Unicellular organisms Flashcards
1
Q
what are the 4 essential features of a respiratory surface
A
For the rapid diffusion of gasses a resp[iratory surface mus
- Have a large surface area to volume ratio
- Be thin the so that the diffusion pathways are short
- Be permeable so that the gasses diffuse easier
- Have a mechanism to produce a steep diffusion gradient accross the respiratory surface, by bringing oxygen or removing carbon dioxide rapidly
2
Q
what do the features of a single celled (unicellular) organism allow it to do?
A
single celled organisms are able to…
- absorb enough oxygen across the cell membrane to meet their needs for respiration.
- remove carbon dioxide fast enough to prevent building up a high concentration making the cytoplasm too acid for enzymes to function.
3
Q
What are the features of a unicellular organism
A
A single cell organism such as an Amoeba is very small (100 micrometres) and…
- Has a large surface area to volume ratio.
- is thin to allow diffusion into the cell rapidly.
- and also to ensure diffusion distances inside the cell is short.
4
Q
where does the diffusion of gasses occur
A
On a respiratory surface
eg.
Alveoli inside the lungs
Trachea of an insect
Spongy mesophil of a plant