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Gaseous Exchange Grade11 Notes

Gaseous exchange is the process of taking in oxygen and removing carbon dioxide through diffusion across thin, moist membranes, primarily occurring in the alveoli of the lungs. Efficient surfaces for this process must be thin, moist, have a large surface area, a rich blood supply, and be well ventilated. Differences between breathing and gaseous exchange are highlighted, along with disorders that can affect the efficiency of this process.

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74 views3 pages

Gaseous Exchange Grade11 Notes

Gaseous exchange is the process of taking in oxygen and removing carbon dioxide through diffusion across thin, moist membranes, primarily occurring in the alveoli of the lungs. Efficient surfaces for this process must be thin, moist, have a large surface area, a rich blood supply, and be well ventilated. Differences between breathing and gaseous exchange are highlighted, along with disorders that can affect the efficiency of this process.

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ayemameva4
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Gaseous Exchange - Grade 11 Notes

1. Definition of Gaseous Exchange

Gaseous exchange is the process where oxygen (O2) is taken into the body and carbon dioxide

(CO2) is removed. It happens by diffusion through thin, moist membranes.

2. Purpose of Gaseous Exchange

- To supply cells with oxygen for cellular respiration.

- To remove carbon dioxide, a waste product of respiration.

3. Characteristics of Surfaces for Gaseous Exchange

Efficient gaseous exchange surfaces must be:

- Thin - for easy diffusion.

- Moist - gases dissolve in moisture before diffusing.

- Large surface area - for more diffusion.

- Rich blood supply - to transport gases.

- Well ventilated - maintains concentration gradient.

4. Gaseous Exchange in Humans

Occurs mainly in the alveoli of the lungs.

Structure of the Alveoli:

- Tiny air sacs with thin walls (1 cell thick).

- Surrounded by capillaries.

- Moist inner surface.

Process:
Gaseous Exchange - Grade 11 Notes

- Oxygen diffuses from alveoli into blood (capillaries).

- Carbon dioxide diffuses from blood into alveoli to be exhaled.

5. Gaseous Exchange in Other Organisms

Plants:

- Occurs through stomata (tiny pores in leaves).

- Oxygen is released during photosynthesis; CO2 is taken in.

Amphibians (e.g., frogs):

- Use skin and lungs.

- Skin must stay moist for diffusion.

Fish:

- Use gills.

- Oxygen from water diffuses into blood; CO2 diffuses out.

6. Differences Between Breathing and Gaseous Exchange

Breathing: Physical movement of air in and out of lungs; involves muscles.

Gaseous Exchange: Diffusion of gases (O2 and CO2) across membranes; involves diffusion only.

7. Disorders Affecting Gaseous Exchange

- Asthma - narrowing of airways.

- Emphysema - damage to alveoli.

- Bronchitis - inflammation of air passages.


Gaseous Exchange - Grade 11 Notes

- Smoking - damages lung tissue and reduces efficiency.

Tips for Remembering:

- MALT: Moist, Alveoli thin, Large surface, Transport system.

- Gases move from high to low concentration - diffusion is key!

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