Gas exchange Flashcards
What is the process of gas exchange in aerobic respiration?
Gas exchange involves the intake of oxygen and the release of carbon dioxide.
What is a key feature of respiratory surfaces?
They have a large surface area.
Why is permeability important in gas exchange?
Permeability allows gases to diffuse easily across the respiratory surface.
What role does haemoglobin play in respiration?
Haemoglobin binds to oxygen for transport in the blood.
Why must respiratory surfaces be moist?
Moist surfaces facilitate the diffusion of gases.
What is a respiratory pigment?
A respiratory pigment is a molecule, like haemoglobin, that carries oxygen.
What is a concentration gradient?
A concentration gradient is the difference in concentration of a substance across a space.
What is the epidermis in relation to gas exchange?
The epidermis can serve as a protective layer for respiratory surfaces.
What is a ventilation mechanism?
A ventilation mechanism helps to move air in and out of the respiratory system.
What is diffusion?
Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
What is a gas exchange surface?
It is a specialized surface where gas exchange occurs.
What is a specialized respiratory surface?
A specialized respiratory surface is adapted for efficient gas exchange.
What is the surface area : volume ratio?
It is a measure of how much surface area is available for gas exchange relative to the volume of the organism.
What does diffusion pathway refer to?
It refers to the distance gases must travel to diffuse across a surface.
What are guard cells?
Guard cells regulate the opening and closing of stomata in plants.
What is the function of the diaphragm?
The diaphragm is a muscle that aids in breathing by contracting and relaxing to change the volume of the thoracic cavity.
