Mechanics of breathing and Gaseous Exchange.

Question 1

How are the intercostal muscles antagonistic?

Answer 1

The contraction of the external intercostal muscles raises the ribcage whereas, the contraction of the internal intercostal muscles lowers the ribcage.

Question 2

What are the mechanics of inspiration?

Answer 2

When inhaling, the external intercostal muscles contract and pull the ribcage up and out, the diaphragm also contracts so it flattens so the chest cavity increases and the air pressure in the lungs decreases. Because the air pressure has decreased, more air can flow into the lungs.

Question 3

What are the mechanics of expiration?

Answer 3

When exhaling, the internal intercostal muscles contract so the ribcage moves down and in, the diaphragm relaxes and takes on a dome shape so the chest cavity has decreased and the air pressure in the lungs increases. Because the air pressure has increased, air is forced out of the lungs.

Question 4

What is the main function of the respiratory system?

Answer 4

Gaseous Exchange

Question 5

What is the site of gaseous exchange?

Answer 5

The alveoli

Question 6

What is gaseous exchange?

Answer 6

Gaseous exchange is the process of diffusion relating to oxygen and carbon dioxide

Question 7

Explain the process of gaseous exchange?

Answer 7

The air enters the alvelous and oxygen is then diffused into the haemoglobin within capillaries surrounding each alveolus. And then the carbon dioxide within the bloodstream diffuses into the alveolus to be exhaled.

Question 8

Name 2 features that allow alveoli to undergo diffusion.

Answer 8

Thin (1 cell thick) walls, moist walls