BiologyCode 5090
Human gas exchange
What this topic asks you to be able to do
- Describe the characteristics of human gas exchange surfaces, limited to: a large surface area, a thin surface, and a good supply of both blood and air
- State what percentage of atmospheric air each of its gases makes up
- Investigate how inspired air differs from expired air, and explain the differences
- Identify the larynx, trachea, lungs, bronchi, bronchioles, alveoli and accompanying capillaries when shown in drawings or photos
- Name the properties of the exchange surface found in the alveoli, and describe the part it plays in gas exchange
- Identify the diaphragm, the ribs and the internal and external intercostal muscles when shown in diagrams and images
- Explain how the ribs, internal and external intercostal muscles and diaphragm bring about changes in volume and pressure within the thorax, which drive air in and out of the lungs (breathing)
- Investigate how the rate and depth of breathing change with physical activity, and explain why
- Explain how mucus, goblet cells and ciliated cells help protect the gas exchange system against particles and pathogens