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

Which of the following would slow down gas exchange between the blood and alveolar air?

Thickening of the respiratory membrane

Higher partial pressure gradient of oxygen

Increased surface area of alveoli

Increased ventilation rate

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of gas exchange: Gas exchange occurs in the lungs between the alveolar air and the blood in the pulmonary capillaries. It is driven by diffusion, which depends on factors such as the thickness of the respiratory membrane, surface area, partial pressure gradients, and ventilation rate.

Analyze the role of the respiratory membrane: The respiratory membrane is a thin barrier that facilitates the diffusion of gases. If the membrane thickens (e.g., due to inflammation or disease), the distance for diffusion increases, slowing down gas exchange.

Examine the effect of partial pressure gradients: A higher partial pressure gradient of oxygen increases the driving force for diffusion, which speeds up gas exchange rather than slowing it down.

Consider the impact of alveolar surface area: Increased surface area of alveoli provides more space for gas exchange, enhancing the process rather than slowing it down.

Evaluate the role of ventilation rate: Increased ventilation rate improves the delivery of fresh air to the alveoli, maintaining optimal partial pressure gradients and facilitating faster gas exchange.