What is the benefit of the alveoli having a large surface area?
Gases can be exchanged between air and blood over a large area.
Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9–1) in Biology (1BI0) (Higher) · 8.3
Revise Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9–1) in Biology (1BI0) (Higher) specification point 8.3, Alveoli adaptations for gas exchange, with free active-recall flashcards. Flip through the set or review every question and answer below.
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What is the benefit of the alveoli having a large surface area?
Gases can be exchanged between air and blood over a large area.
How does the thin surface of the alveoli help gas exchange?
It gives oxygen and carbon dioxide a short distance to diffuse.
How does a good blood supply around the alveoli support gas exchange?
It carries oxygen away and brings carbon dioxide to the alveoli.
How does good ventilation of the alveoli support gas exchange?
It replaces alveolar air, bringing in oxygen and removing carbon dioxide.