How are the alveoli adapted for gas exchange?

The alveoli are covered by a rich blood supply of capillaries- this provides a diffusion gradient for oxygen to move into the blood and carbon dioxide to move into the lungs.The alveoli are also highly folded, meaning there is a high surface area: volume ratio for gas exchange.Finally, the alveolar walls are only one cell thick, so the gases can diffuse easily across.

Answered by Fergus L. Biology tutor

64674 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Briefly explain how Darwin formulated his theory of evolution by natural selection.


Please can you explain what a heart attack is and how it can occur?


What's the difference between a eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell?


Explain why there is a change in the rate of blood flow through the digestive system during exercise.


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