Figure 3 shows a pair of human lungs - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 3 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 3
Figure 3 shows a pair of human lungs.
(a) (i) Where does gas exchange take place in the lungs?
A alveolus
B bronchus
C bronchiole
D trachea
A person had emphysema... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 3 shows a pair of human lungs - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 3 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Where does gas exchange take place in the lungs?
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Answer
Gas exchange takes place in the alveoli. These tiny air sacs in the lungs are specialized for exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and the bloodstream.
Step 2
Explain how emphysema would affect the amount of oxygen carried in the bloodstream.
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Answer
Emphysema leads to a reduction in the number of alveoli, which decreases the overall surface area available for gas exchange. This decrease in surface area reduces the amount of oxygen that can diffuse into the bloodstream, potentially leading to lower oxygen levels in the body. As a result, individuals with emphysema may experience difficulty in maintaining adequate oxygenation of their blood.