8.3 - Adaptations of Alveoli Flashcards
1
Q
What are alveoli?
A
Alveoli are the small ‘air sacs’ in the lungs.
2
Q
What surrounds the alveoli?
A
Alveoli are surrounded by blood vessels with thin walls.
3
Q
What is the function of alveoli?
A
They allow gas exchange between the lungs and blood.
4
Q
How are alveoli adapted for gas exchange?
A
They are very small and arranged in clusters, creating a large surface area for diffusion.
5
Q
What role do capillaries play in alveoli?
A
Capillaries provide a large blood supply, maintaining the concentration gradient.
6
Q
What is a key feature of the walls of the alveoli?
A
The walls of the alveoli are very thin, meaning there is a short diffusion pathway.
