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Multiple Choice
Which of the following happens during external respiration?
A
Oxygen is transported from the blood into body tissues.
B
Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the blood, and carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveoli.
C
Carbon dioxide is converted to bicarbonate ions in red blood cells.
D
Glucose is broken down to produce ATP in the mitochondria.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of external respiration: External respiration refers to the gas exchange process that occurs between the alveoli in the lungs and the blood in the pulmonary capillaries.
Identify the gases involved: Oxygen (O₂) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) are the primary gases exchanged during external respiration.
Explain the direction of gas diffusion: Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli (where its concentration is higher) into the blood, while carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood (where its concentration is higher) into the alveoli.
Relate the process to partial pressure gradients: Gas exchange occurs due to differences in partial pressures of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the alveoli and the blood. This is governed by the principles of diffusion.
Clarify why other options are incorrect: For example, oxygen transport to tissues, carbon dioxide conversion to bicarbonate ions, and glucose breakdown for ATP production are processes related to internal respiration or cellular metabolism, not external respiration.