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Multiple Choice
The tissue through which gases are exchanged between the blood and the air in the lungs is:
A
Bronchial cartilage
B
Smooth muscle tissue
C
Ciliated columnar epithelium
D
Alveolar epithelium
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of the lungs: The lungs are responsible for gas exchange, where oxygen is absorbed into the blood and carbon dioxide is expelled from the blood.
Identify the structure where gas exchange occurs: Gas exchange happens in the alveoli, which are tiny air sacs in the lungs. These are surrounded by capillaries to facilitate the exchange of gases.
Recognize the tissue type involved: The alveoli are lined with alveolar epithelium, a thin layer of cells that allows gases to pass through easily due to its minimal thickness.
Eliminate incorrect options: Bronchial cartilage provides structural support, smooth muscle tissue helps regulate airflow, and ciliated columnar epithelium moves mucus and debris but does not participate in gas exchange.
Conclude that the correct tissue for gas exchange is alveolar epithelium, as it is specifically adapted for this function with its thin structure and close proximity to capillaries.