Respiratory System

Question 1

Functions of the respiratory system

Answer 1

1. gas exchange
2. blood pH homeostasis
3. vocalization (larynx)

Question 2

What animals need a respiratory system?

Answer 2

Metazoans (multi-cellular animals) - diffusion alone is NOT sufficient - high surface area increases RATE of diffusion

Question 3

Fick’s Law of Diffusion

Answer 3

rate of diffusion = (conc. gradient)(surface area)(diffusion coeff.)/(membrane thickness)

Question 4

When is diffusion efficient?

Answer 4

1. high gradient
2. high surface area to volume
3. thin cell membrane