Diffusion is an important process in animals and plants.Diffusion also happens in the human lungs. Figure 2 shows the human breathing system. Explain how the human lungs are adapted for efficient exchange of gases by diffusion. – 7011

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1. The alveoli have many small sacs.

   This gives a large surface area for gases to diffuse.

   The walls of the alveoli and the capillaries are very thin, sometimes just one cell thick.

   This means the distance for oxygen and carbon dioxide to move is short.

   Breathing moves air in and out of the lungs, so fresh oxygen is always brought in.

   It also helps to remove carbon dioxide from the lungs.

   There are lots of capillaries around the alveoli to keep blood flowing.

   This helps keep a good concentration gradient for oxygen and carbon dioxide to move quickly.

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