Chapter 42.7, Problem 1CC

Summary Introduction

To interpret: Whether O₂ and CO₂undergo the net diffusion into or out of the capillaries and the alveoli.

Concept introduction: The net diffusion of O₂ and CO₂ is in and out of the tissues and near the alveoli is determined by the partial pressure of gasses. Oxygen is a gas andessential for aerobicrespiration. In aerobic respiration,glucose (or other nutrients) istransformed to energyas adenosine triphosphate (ATP), whereas the carbondioxide (CO₂) is the metabolic waste. Simple diffusion facilitates the exchange of O₂ and CO₂. Diffusion is the movement of particles (atoms, ions, or molecules) from a region of higher concentration to the region of lower concentration.