How does increased alveolar surface area impact gas exchange?

How does increased alveolar surface area impact gas exchange?

• A. It enhances gas exchange
• B. It decreases gas exchange
• C. It has no effect on gas exchange
• D. It only affects oxygen exchange

Answer: (A)

Increased alveolar surface area significantly enhances gas exchange within the lungs. The primary function of alveoli is to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and the bloodstream. A larger surface area allows for more alveoli to be available for this process, which means that more gas molecules can diffuse simultaneously. When the alveolar surface area expands, more oxygen can diffuse into the blood while more carbon dioxide can be expelled from the blood into the alveoli, improving the overall efficiency of gas exchange. This is particularly beneficial during situations requiring increased oxygen uptake, such as exercise or in conditions of respiratory distress. Therefore, an increase in surface area creates a more favorable environment for gas exchange, directly enhancing the body's ability to oxygenate blood and remove carbon dioxide effectively.

Increased alveolar surface area significantly enhances gas exchange within the lungs. The primary function of alveoli is to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and the bloodstream. A larger surface area allows for more alveoli to be available for this process, which means that more gas molecules can diffuse simultaneously.

When the alveolar surface area expands, more oxygen can diffuse into the blood while more carbon dioxide can be expelled from the blood into the alveoli, improving the overall efficiency of gas exchange. This is particularly beneficial during situations requiring increased oxygen uptake, such as exercise or in conditions of respiratory distress. Therefore, an increase in surface area creates a more favorable environment for gas exchange, directly enhancing the body's ability to oxygenate blood and remove carbon dioxide effectively.