Explain how the lungs are adapted for gaseous exchange.

The lungs are made up of tiny sacs called alveoli which presents a very large surface area for gaseous exchange. The lungs are well supplied with blood due to lots of capillaries covering the alveoli, constantly maintaining a large diffusion gradient, air is able to pass easily down this gradient due to the alveoli having very thin walls (one cell thick).

JT
Answered by Jonathan T. Biology tutor

58642 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the mechanism of inspiration in human?


If a gene mutation is associated with the development of Alzheimer's Disease (e.g. E280A), how might a high frequency develop in a population and why wouldn't natural selection decrease it?


Effect of competitive inhibitor (on enzyme activity) on enzyme catalysed reaction


explain how the nervous system increases heart rate


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning