The figure given below shows a small part of human lung where exchange of gases takes place. Select the option which represents labelled part (A, B, C or D) correctly identified along with its function. [Figure]
- D : capillary wall - exchange of O2 and CO2 takes place here
- B : red blood cells - transport of CO2 mainly.
- A : alveolar cavity - main site of exchange of respiratory gases
- C : arterial capillary - passes oxygen to tissues
Answer
(3) A : alveolar cavity - main site of exchange of respiratory gases
Solution
In the figure, A is the alveolar cavity, B points to the red blood cells in the pulmonary capillary, C is the capillary and D is the thin alveolar/capillary wall.
As per NCERT, alveoli are the primary sites of exchange of gases; exchange occurs by simple diffusion between the alveolar air and the blood in the surrounding capillaries.
⇒ Most CO2 (about 70 per cent) is carried as bicarbonate in plasma, not mainly by RBCs, ∴ (2) is incorrect.
⇒ The capillary around the alveolus belongs to the pulmonary circulation; it picks up oxygen from the alveolus and does not pass oxygen to tissues, ∴ (4) is incorrect.
∴ A : alveolar cavity — main site of exchange of respiratory gases.
Answer: (3)