In order for efficient pulmonary gas exchange to occur:
A. the pulmonary capillaries must be completely constricted and the alveoli must be collapsed.
B. the percentage of inhaled carbon dioxide must exceed the percentage of inhaled oxygen.
C. oxygen and carbon dioxide must be able to freely diffuse across the alveolar-capillary membrane.
D. there must be low quantities of pulmonary surfactant to allow for full alveolar expansion.
Answer (2)
Efficient pulmonary gas exchange requires oxygen and carbon dioxide to diffuse freely across the alveolar-capillary membrane. Factors like the surface area of the alveoli are crucial to this process, whereas constriction of capillaries or lack of surfactant would impede gas exchange. Thus, option C is the correct choice. ;
Efficient pulmonary gas exchange requires that oxygen and carbon dioxide diffuse freely across the alveolar-capillary membrane, making option C the correct choice. Factors such as surface area and membrane thickness are important in this process. Additionally, sufficient pulmonary surfactant is necessary for optimal alveolar function.
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