Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
In both pulmonary and systemic circulation, gas exchange occurs at the:
A
heart valves
B
arteries
C
capillaries
D
veins
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of gas exchange: Gas exchange refers to the process where oxygen is transferred from the blood to the tissues and carbon dioxide is transferred from the tissues to the blood. This occurs at the level of capillaries, which are the smallest blood vessels in the circulatory system.
Review the structure of the circulatory system: The circulatory system is divided into pulmonary circulation (blood flow between the heart and lungs) and systemic circulation (blood flow between the heart and the rest of the body). Both systems rely on capillaries for gas exchange.
Identify the role of capillaries: Capillaries are thin-walled blood vessels that allow for the diffusion of gases, nutrients, and waste products between the blood and surrounding tissues. Their structure is specifically adapted for efficient exchange.
Eliminate incorrect options: Heart valves regulate blood flow within the heart, arteries transport blood away from the heart, and veins return blood to the heart. None of these structures are involved in direct gas exchange.
Conclude that capillaries are the correct answer: Capillaries are the site of gas exchange in both pulmonary and systemic circulation, making them the correct choice for this question.