Peak Performance - Gas exchange - Composition of alveoli air

9 important questions on Peak Performance - Gas exchange - Composition of alveoli air

Why is there a difference between the alveoli air and the atmospheric air?

- The alveoli air is only partially replaced by atmospheric air.
- Atmospheric air is not humidified. The air becomes humidified by the water vapour on the respiratory passages before it enters the alveoli.
- O2 and CO2 are diffusing across the alveoli wall.
- Alveoli air mixes with dead space air during expiration.   
- The Pal cannot exceed the Patm (760mmHg above sea level). The water vapour will partially dilute the gases= partial pressure of the gases in the alveoli < than in the atmosphere.

What affects the concentration/partial pressure of CO2 in the alveoli?

Concentration in the alveoli is directly proportional to the rate of excretion.
Concentration in the alveoli is inversely proportional to the rate of ventilation.

What is the composition of exhaled air?

1st: dead space air- mostly humidified air in the respiratory passage- mostly O2.
2nd: mixture of dead space air and alveoli air.
3rd: alveoli air only.
  • Higher grades + faster learning
  • Never study anything twice
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Discover Study Smart

How do you measure the composition of alveoli air?

Collect and analyse the last bit of air during forced expiration.

What is the partial pressures in exhaled air?

The intermediate between atmospheric air and alveoli air- as it is a mixture of the two.

What is the difference between the FRC and the alveoli air?

FRC= 2300ml
Alveoli air= 350ml

What is the importance of the slow rate of renewal of alveoli air?

Important in preventing sudden changes in the blood.
Prevents sudden changes in the concentration of O2, CO2 and H+ following short interruptions in breathing.
Therefore, stabilises the respiratory control centres.

What is the structure of the respiratory membrane?

1. Thin fluid layer that lines the alveolus- contains surfactant.
2. Alveolar epithelium- lined with epithelial cells.
3. Epithelial basement membrane
4. Interstitial space between the alveoli and the capillary.
5. Capillary basement membrane- fuses with the alveoli epithelial basement membrane in various places.
6. Capillary endothelial lining.

Where does gas exchange occur along the respiratory membrane?

Across the epithelial cells (squamous) that line the alveoli, the endothelial cells of the capillary and the fused based membrane between the two.

The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:

  • A unique study and practice tool
  • Never study anything twice again
  • Get the grades you hope for
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Remember faster, study better. Scientifically proven.
Trustpilot Logo