Breathing and gas exchange

Breathing and gas exchange

1. The gas exchange system takes air into and out of the body to supply oxygen and remove carbon dioxide

2. The movement of air in and out of the lungs is brought about by the movements ribs and diaphragm. The air movement maintains a steep concentration gradient for the diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the blood and the air in the lungs.

3. The complete gas exchange includes the ribs, the intercostal muscles, the diaphragm, the trachea, the bronchi, the bronchioles, alveoli and pleural membrane of the thorax

4. Gas exchange takes place in the lungs and depend on efficient diffusion of the gases