Question

Explain the adaption of the alveolus that enables it to carry out its's intended function?

Answer 1

Answer:

Alveoli are an important part of the respiratory system. The respiratory system is the part of your body that helps you breathe.

Alveoli are tiny, balloon-shaped air sacs. Their job is to move oxygen and carbon dioxide (CO2) molecules into and out of your bloodstream.

This article will discuss the structure and function of the alveoli. It will also describe some of the medical conditions that can affect the alveoli.

Answer 2

Each alveolus has certain adaptations that help it to carry out its intended functions.  

The function of the alveoli is to help in the exchange of gases.

The various adaptations are:

1. Capillary network- The alveoli have a dense network of blood capillaries around them. This helps in efficient blood supply, and hence greater supply of the gases too. The absorbed oxygen can quickly be supplied to other parts of the body.
2. Permeable walls- Since gases need to be exchanged, it is important for the walls of the alveoli to be permeable, allowing the movement of gases across the walls. Oxygen comes into the alveoli while carbon dioxide is given out through diffusion across the permeable walls.
3. Moist walls- The walls of the alveoli are moist. This moisture itself absorbs the gases and makes diffusion and the movement of gases easier.
4. Elasticity- As we breathe in air, the alveoli expand so that a maximum amount of air can be taken in. This elasticity ensures that we inhale as much oxygen as possible, and when the alveoli contract on breathing out, as much carbon dioxide can be given out as possible.
5. Increased surface area- When the alveoli expand, it increases their surface area. The greater the surface area, the more the diffusion will occur.