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How is the structure of the respiratory system suited in taking in and delivering oxygen?

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How is the structure of the respiratory system suited in taking in and delivering oxygen?

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TAKING IN OXYGEN: – The diaphragm lowering and the rib cage moving out and up means there is a lower air pressure gradient in the body (thoracic cavity) than in the atmosphere, so air from outside is drawn in DELIVERY OF OXYGEN: – The alveoli has a large surface area (about the size of a tennis court) for diffusion of Oxygen to take place – The diffusion gradient of Oxygen is kept constant with the constant movement of blood away from the lungs (Oxygen in blood is moved away so low oxygen potential in blood is maintained) – The walls of the alveoli are only 1-cell-thick (squamous epithelial cells) so the distance for diffusion is decreased – Capillaries are always in close contact with the alveoli to further decrease the distance for diffusion – Haemoglobin in the red blood cells (what the oxygen binds to in the blood for transportation) has no nucleus and is biconcave, therefore increasing the surface area available to carry oxygen

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