Describe and explain the function alveoli

Just to some basics:Gas exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen occurs in the alveoli, small sac shaped branches of the lungs, grouped together similarly to grapes. When you breathe in, oxygen from the inhaled air diffuses through the walls of the alveoli into next door capillaries. Cells in the body produce carbon dioxide as they respire, which returns to the lungs to leave the body. Back to the question:To maximise this gas exchange - alveoli have a large surface area to volume ratio, to maximise rate of diffusion. They have walls that are extremely thin (one cell thick) so that the gases can diffuse quickly through the alveoli wall to the capillary or visa versa. Alveoli are lined in fluid to allow the gases to dissolve faster. Alveoli are surrounded by capillaries to maximise the surface area in which the gases can diffuse.    

Answered by Anh-Duong V. Biology tutor

14826 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do muscles contract? Describe the sliding filament theory.


Why may a rise in testosterone above normal cause a subsequent decrease in the hormone?


Starting with mRNA in the cytoplasm, how are polypeptides produced?


What is the function of the kidneys and how do they carry this out?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences