Ijmb Model Questions Vol1 2021 Biology Question 4

Practice essay / theory question 4 from the 2021 Ijmb Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination. This question covers respiration .

Ijmb Model Questions Vol1 2021 Biology Essay / Theory
Topic: respiration
Question 4 IJMB_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1 • 2021 • BIOLOGY • essay

The diagram shows a labelled schematic of the human respiratory system. The components are labelled as follows: A – Nasal cavity, B – Pharynx, C – Larynx, D – Trachea, E – Right main bronchus, F – Left main bronchus, G – Bronchioles, H – Alveolar sacs, I – Diaphragm, J – Pleural cavity.

Question Parts

( a )
Describe, in the correct sequential order, the pathway that a fresh inhaled air molecule follows from the external environment to reach the alveolar sacs, referencing the labelled parts of the diagram.
( b )
Explain the mechanism of ventilation (breathing) highlighting the role of the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles, and indicate on the diagram which labelled part(s) are directly involved.
( c )
Each alveolus can be approximated as a sphere of diameter 0.2 mm. The diagram indicates that an adult human lung contains about 480 million alveoli. Estimate the total surface area available for gas exchange in square metres. Show all steps of your calculation.
( d )
Discuss how the structural features of the alveolar wall facilitate the diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air in the alveoli and the blood in the surrounding capillaries.

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About This Question

This is Ijmb Model Questions Vol1 2021 Biology Question 4. It is one of the essay questions from the 2021 Ijmb Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination.

The question covers respiration .

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