Diffusion is the process that allows the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the alveoli. This process is one of passive transport.
Oxygen diffuses rapidly into the blood due to the concentration gradient between the alveoli in the lungs and the blood in the capillaries surrounding them. The alveoli have a high concentration of oxygen, while the blood has a lower concentration, which drives the diffusion of oxygen across the thin walls of the alveoli and capillaries. Additionally, the large surface area and short diffusion distance in the lungs help facilitate the rapid diffusion of oxygen into the blood.
The alveoli are the site of gas exchange in the lungs, where oxygen is taken up by the blood. The alveolar oxygen tension is higher than arterial oxygen tension because there is a gradient that drives oxygen diffusion from the alveoli into the blood. This difference is necessary to ensure efficient oxygen uptake by the blood in the lungs.
Curiosity.
Metabolic or respiratory acidosis drives potassium into the cells in exchange for hydrogen ions. This shift occurs as a compensatory mechanism to help regulate the body's acid-base balance.
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The alveoli are protected by the surfactant, which is a substance secreted by the alveolar cells. Surfactant reduces the surface tension in the alveoli, preventing them from collapsing during exhalation. The rib cage and diaphragm also play a role in protecting the alveoli by maintaining the pressure required for proper lung function.
The pressure gradient created by blood pressure forces plasma from the glomerular capillaries into Bowman's capsule. This process is known as glomerular filtration and is the first step in urine formation in the kidneys.
solar energy
concentration gradients, osmosis, and hydrostatic pressure
The energy from the Sun, solar energy drives all the process important to life on Earth.
unequal heat ditribution
unequal heat ditribution