Chat with AIExam 26: Anatomy of the Respiratory System
Explain how the respiratory membrane allows for an efficient exchange of gases in the lung.
(30) 
Answered by Examlex AI CopilotThe respiratory membrane is a thin barrier that separates the air in the alveoli of the lungs from the blood in the surrounding capillaries. This membrane is made up of the alveolar epithelium, the capillary endothelium, and their shared basement membrane.
The efficiency of gas exchange in the lung is facilitated by several factors related to the respiratory membrane. Firstly, the thinness of the membrane allows for a short diffusion distance for gases to move between the air and the blood. This means that oxygen can quickly move from the alveoli into the blood, and carbon dioxide can move from the blood into the alveoli for exhalation.
Secondly, the large surface area of the respiratory membrane, due to the numerous alveoli in the lungs, provides ample space for gas exchange to occur. This maximizes the contact between the air and the blood, allowing for a greater exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Additionally, the respiratory membrane is highly permeable to gases, allowing for efficient diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide. This permeability is facilitated by the presence of thin, squamous epithelial cells and a rich network of capillaries.
Overall, the respiratory membrane's thinness, large surface area, and high permeability all contribute to the efficient exchange of gases in the lung, ensuring that oxygen is taken up by the blood and carbon dioxide is removed from the body during respiration.
The root of the lung and the hilum of the lung are the same structure.
(33) 
VerifiedFalse
The pharynx is a tubelike structure that opens only into the mouth and larynx.
(35) VerifiedFalse
A pleural space containing a lubricating fluid separates two layers of pleura.
(45) Surfactant is a fluid coating the alveoli that reduces surface tension.
(36) The oropharynx moves up and down during swallowing to prevent food or liquids from entering the trachea.
(30) Match each term with its corresponding definition.
-bony projections that divide each nasal cavity into three passageways; nasal conchae
(39) Match each term with its corresponding definition.
-double layer of cells where gases are exchanged between alveolar air and blood
(32) The approximate length of the trachea,or windpipe,is _____ cm.
(33) The anatomical division of the pharynx that is located behind the mouth from the soft palate above to the level of the hyoid bone below is called the:
(36) When the diaphragm contracts,it pulls the ribs together and reduces the size of the thoracic cavity and expels air.
(30) 
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