Exchange Surfaces in Humans Flashcards

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In biology, what is an exchange surface?

An exchange surface is a part of the body that is adapted for substances to move in or out, such as gases or nutrients.

Why do humans need specialised exchange surfaces instead of just using their skin?

Humans are large and made of many cells. Cells inside the body are far from the outside, so they need special surfaces to get substances in and out quickly.

Name two substances that move into the body across exchange surfaces and two that move out.

Into the body: oxygen and digested food. Out of the body: carbon dioxide and urea.

How does having a large surface area make an exchange surface work better?

A large surface area gives more space for particles to cross the surface. This lets more substance diffuse in or out at the same time.

Why are exchange surfaces usually only one cell thick?

A thin surface means a short distance for particles to travel. This makes diffusion faster.

How does a good blood supply help an exchange surface in humans?

Blood carries substances to and from the surface. This keeps a big difference in concentration on each side so diffusion stays fast.

Why are many human exchange surfaces kept moist?

Gases must dissolve in a thin layer of water before they diffuse. A moist surface helps gases cross the membrane more easily.

What is the main exchange surface for oxygen and carbon dioxide in the human body?

The alveoli in the lungs are the main exchange surface for oxygen and carbon dioxide.

What is the main exchange surface for digested food in the human body?

The villi in the small intestine are the main exchange surface for digested food.

What does it mean when we say an exchange surface has a steep concentration gradient?

It means there is a big difference in concentration on each side of the surface. This steep concentration gradient makes diffusion faster.

How do capillaries support exchange surfaces in humans?

Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that lie close to exchange surfaces. Their thin walls help substances pass quickly between the blood and the exchange surface.