Exchange Surfaces Revision

Front

What are exchange surfaces in large organisms?

Back

Specialised surfaces that supply cells with required substances and remove waste products.

Front

What are the characteristics of efficient exchange surfaces?

Back

Large surface areas, short diffusion paths, and methods to maintain a concentration gradient.

Front

How is the small intestine adapted for absorption?

Back

It has villi that increase surface area, a single layer of surface cells, and a network of capillaries for short diffusion distance.

Front

What is the function of the lungs?

Back

To take in oxygen for aerobic respiration and remove carbon dioxide from the blood.

Front

How do alveoli in the lungs aid gas exchange?

Back

They provide a large surface area, have a moist lining, thin walls, and a good blood supply.

Front

How do fish gills facilitate gas exchange?

Back

Gills have filaments and lamellae for large surface area, good blood supply, and maintain a concentration gradient.

Front

What is the role of leaves in gas exchange?

Back

Leaves allow oxygen and water vapor to diffuse out and carbon dioxide to diffuse in through stomata and cell walls.

Front

How do root hair cells aid in absorption?

Back

They increase surface area for water and mineral ion absorption and have mitochondria for active transport.

Front

What is the purpose of stomata on leaves?

Back

To allow carbon dioxide in and oxygen and water vapor out, controlled by guard cells.

Front

How do guard cells function?

Back

They control the opening and closing of stomata to prevent water loss.