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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is true at the venous ends of the pulmonary capillaries?
A
Oxygen levels are higher than carbon dioxide levels.
B
The blood is at its lowest oxygen saturation.
C
Blood is deoxygenated and rich in carbon dioxide.
D
Carbon dioxide levels are higher than oxygen levels.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of pulmonary capillaries: Pulmonary capillaries are involved in gas exchange between the blood and the alveoli in the lungs. Oxygen is absorbed into the blood, and carbon dioxide is released into the alveoli to be exhaled.
Identify the direction of gas exchange: At the venous end of the pulmonary capillaries, blood has just passed through the alveolar capillaries where gas exchange occurs. Oxygen is taken up by the blood, and carbon dioxide is released.
Consider the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels: After gas exchange, the blood leaving the pulmonary capillaries (venous end) will have higher oxygen levels compared to carbon dioxide levels because it has been oxygenated.
Evaluate the options: The statement 'Oxygen levels are higher than carbon dioxide levels' aligns with the physiological process occurring at the venous end of the pulmonary capillaries.
Conclude the analysis: Based on the understanding of pulmonary gas exchange, the correct statement is that oxygen levels are higher than carbon dioxide levels at the venous ends of the pulmonary capillaries.