respiration in aquatic/marine animals

Question 1

why do some air bubbles shrink when used by diving insects

Answer 1

O2 diffuses in and CO2 & N out- theoretically bubble should stay full. It gradually shrinks- diffusion in is not as fast as out.

Question 2

what do insects use to keep bubbles inflated indefinitely?

Answer 2

hydrophobic hairs hold the bubble in place creating a vacuous space into which O2 can diffuse in more easily.

Question 3

by how much does water pressure increase per 10m?

Answer 3

by 1 ATM

Question 4

what effect does increased pressure have on the lung cavity and its partial pressure?

Answer 4

it squeezes it- increased partial pressure

Question 5

where is O2 stored in diving mammals instead of the lungs?

Answer 5

blood and muscle

Question 6

why is myoglobin found in greater levels in diving mammals?

Answer 6

it has a higher affinity for O2 and therefore holds onto its oxygen for longer

Question 7

how does insulation help slow O2 consumption?

Answer 7

minimises the amount of O2 used for maintaining homeostasis