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Alveoli

Alveoli. How is the structure of lungs adapted to their function?. Definitions. Gas exchange is the process of swapping one gas for another. In this case CO 2 and O 2 . Ventilation is the process of bringing fresh air into the alveoli and removing the stale air from it.

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Alveoli

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  1. Alveoli How is the structure of lungs adapted to their function?

  2. Definitions • Gas exchange is the process of swapping one gas for another. In this case CO2 and O2. • Ventilation is the process of bringing fresh air into the alveoli and removing the stale air from it. It is required to maintain the concentration gradient between the air in the alveoli and the blood in the capillaries so diffusion and thereby gas exchange can take place.

  3. Gas exchange

  4. Structure and function of an alveolus • Wall of the alveolus and blood capillary are both just one cell thick so it is easy for gas to diffuse through. • Alveolus has a large surface area for gas to diffuse across. • Moisture lines the alveolus making it easier for gas to diffuse through.

  5. Emphysema • Caused by smoking. • The alveoli are damaged, decreasing the surface area for gas exchange. • It can lead to a person having to use an oxygen supply permanently. Jim Hamp (68) dying of Emphysema. Smoked for 50 years.

  6. Microscope image of alveoli • Lumen is the airspace inside the alveolus. • The stroma is the space between the alveoli, this is where the blood capillaries are found.

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