Gas Exchange- Miliswa Mtala

Question 1

Define gaseous exchange.

Answer 1

The exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide across a gaseous exchange surface.

Question 2

Define breathing.

Answer 2

The mechanical process whereby air moves in and out of the lungs.

Question 3

Define cellular respiration.

Answer 3

The gradual release of energy from organic compounds (glucose) in the presence of oxygen.

Question 4

What is the need for gaseous exchange ?

Answer 4

The main function of the respiratory system is to absorb oxygen from the atmosphere and make it available to the cells for respiration.
CO2 is released by the cells during respiration and is continually removed through gaseous exchange.

Question 5

What are the requirements for an effective gaseous exchange system?

Answer 5

The surface must be thin for quick and easy diffusion.
The surface should be moist in order to diffuse through a membrane.
The surface must have a transport system for efficient transport of gases.
The surface must be well protected because it is very thin and fragile.

Question 6

In mammals, where does gaseous exchange take place?

Answer 6

Gaseous exchange takes place in the lungs