The respiratory system Flashcards
1
Q
What tissues make up the gas exchange system
A
Trachea Intercostal muscles Bronchi Bronchioles Alveoli Diaphragm
2
Q
How are lungs ventilated (receive oxygen) by the action of the intercostal muscles
A
- Intercostal muscles contract
- Rib cage moves upwards and outwards
- Diaphragm flattens and volume of the chest increases
- Increased volume means decreased pressure
- Air is drawn into lungs down pressure gradient
3
Q
How gas exchange occurs at the alveoli
A
- Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the capillary bloodstream down its concentration gradient
- Carbon dioxide diffuses from the apillary into the alveoli down its concentration gradient
4
Q
How are alveoli adapted for gas exchange
A
small and arranged clusters so they have a larger surface area
rich blood supply so it maintains the concentration gradient
thin alveolar wall so there is a short diffusion pathway
5
Q
How you would you calculate breathing rate
A
Number of breaths divided by number of minutes
