Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

22. The Respiratory System

Introduction to Lung Physiology

Anatomy & Physiology

22. The Respiratory System

Introduction to Lung Physiology

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Multiple Choice

How is the surface area expanded in the lungs to facilitate gas exchange?

By reducing the number of capillaries

Through the presence of alveoli

By increasing the thickness of the alveolar walls

Through the contraction of the diaphragm

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the primary function of the lungs, which is to facilitate gas exchange between the air and the blood. This process requires a large surface area to be efficient.

Recognize that the lungs contain structures called alveoli, which are tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs. The presence of millions of alveoli significantly increases the surface area available for gas exchange.

Consider the structure of alveoli: they have thin walls and are surrounded by a network of capillaries. This design allows oxygen and carbon dioxide to easily diffuse across the alveolar and capillary walls.

Note that increasing the thickness of the alveolar walls would actually hinder gas exchange, as it would make diffusion more difficult. Therefore, thin walls are essential for efficient gas exchange.

Understand the role of the diaphragm in breathing: its contraction increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, allowing the lungs to expand and fill with air, but it does not directly increase the surface area for gas exchange.