Gas exchange happens in the alveoli in the lungs - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 6 - 2023 - Paper 2
Question 6
Gas exchange happens in the alveoli in the lungs. Figure 12 shows an alveolus and a capillary.
(i) Name the gas used in respiration that moves from the alveolus int... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Gas exchange happens in the alveoli in the lungs - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 6 - 2023 - Paper 2
Step 1
Name the gas used in respiration that moves from the alveolus into the capillary.
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Answer
The gas used in respiration that moves from the alveolus into the capillary is oxygen. This is essential for cellular respiration in the body, as it is utilized by cells to produce energy.
Step 2
Name the gas produced by respiration that moves from the capillary into the alveoli.
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Answer
The gas produced by respiration that moves from the capillary into the alveoli is carbon dioxide. This waste product is expelled from the body through exhalation.
Step 3
Explain how gases move from the alveolus to the capillary.
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Answer
Gases move from the alveolus to the capillary through a process called diffusion. Since the concentration of oxygen is higher in the alveoli compared to the blood in the capillaries, oxygen diffuses into the blood. Conversely, carbon dioxide, which is at a higher concentration in the blood than in the alveoli, diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled. The thin, one-cell-thick walls of the capillaries facilitate this exchange, allowing for efficient gas transfer.