Gas Exchange in Humans: Multiple-Choice Questions

New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology (Second Edition) Chapter 7
Question Bank Multiple-choice questions
Chapter 7 Gas exchange in humans

Multiple-choice questions
[10134289]
** The graph below shows the change in air pressure in the lungs of a person within
a period of time.
Which of the following statements about the events that happen in different
periods of time are correct?
(1) During t1, the volume of the lungs is increasing.
(2) During t2, the intercostal muscles contract.
(3) During t3, the diaphragm is becoming flattened.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
C
---------------------------------------------------
© Oxford University Press

7-1
[10134317]
a period of time.
At which of the following time is the volume of the lungs the largest?
A W
B X
C Y
D Z
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134328]
* The graph below shows the change in air pressure in the lungs of a person within
a period of time.
During which of the following periods of time do the diaphragm muscles

contract?
(1) W to X
(2) X to Y
(3) Y to Z
A (1) only
B (3) only

7-2
C (1) and (2) only

D (2) and (3) only
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134352]
a period of time.
At which of the following time the rib cage of the person begins to move
upwards?
A W
B X
C Y
D Z
B
---------------------------------------------------

7-3
[10134361]
a period of time.
During which of the following periods of time are the diaphragm muscles in the
state of contraction?
A t1
B t2
C t3
D t4
B
---------------------------------------------------
[10134367]
* The graph below shows the change in air pressure in the lungs of a person within
a period of time.
Which of the following statements about the events that happen at time X is/are
correct?
(1) The diaphragm muscles contract.
(2) The rib cage is moving upwards and outwards.
(3) Air is forcing out of the lungs.
A (1) only
B (2) only
C (3) only

7-4
D (1) and (2) only

C
---------------------------------------------------
[10134372]
a period of time.
At which of the following time is the person inhaling?

A W and X
B W and Z
C X and Y
D Y and Z
C
---------------------------------------------------

7-5
[10134376]
** The graph below shows the change in volume of the lungs of a person within a
period of time.
Which of the following statements about the air pressure in the lungs at different
time is/are correct?
(1) At time X, the air pressure in the lungs is lower than the atmospheric
pressure.
(2) At time Y, the air pressure in the lungs is increasing.
(3) At time Z, the air pressure in the lungs is higher than the atmospheric
pressure.
A (1) only
B (3) only
C (1) and (3) only
D (2) and (3) only
B
---------------------------------------------------
[10134377]
Which of the following movements of the rib cage and the diaphragm cause air
to rush into the lungs?
Rib cage Diaphragm
A moves upwards and outwards becomes dome shape
B moves upwards and outwards becomes flattened
C moves downwards and inwards becomes dome shape
D moves downwards and inwards becomes flattened
B
---------------------------------------------------

7-6
[10134389]
* The graph below shows the change in volume of the lungs of a person within a
period of time.
Which of the following statements about the events that happen in different
periods of time are correct?
(1) During t1, the intercostal muscles contract.
(2) During t2, the diaphragm is flattened.
(3) During t3, the rib cage moves downwards and inwards.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10134397]
Smokers have a higher risk of getting lung infections. Which of the following is
a possible reason?
A The walls of their air sacs become thick.
B Their air sacs break down.
C Tar deposits on the surface of their air sacs.
D The beating of the cilia in their respiratory tract is inhibited.
D
---------------------------------------------------

7-7
[10134407]
* Which of the following is/are the adaptive feature(s) that is/are common to the
air sacs of the lungs and the villi of the small intestine?
(1) They are richly supplied with capillaries.
(2) The epithelial cells have a large amount of mitochondria.
(3) Their epithelium is one-cell thick.
A (3) only
B (1) and (2) only
C (1) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
C
---------------------------------------------------
[10134408]
** Directions: The following two questions refer to the graph below, which shows
the change in the volume of the lungs of an adult at rest.
What of the following correctly shows the state of the intercostal muscles, the
movements of the rib cage and the flow of air at time X?
Intercostal muscles Movement of rib cage Flow of air
A contract downwards and inwards out of the lungs
B contract upwards and outwards into the lungs
C relax downwards and inwards out of the lungs
D relax upwards and outwards into the lungs
B
---------------------------------------------------

7-8
[10134422]
** Which of the following graphs represents the change in air pressure in the lungs
during the same period of time?
A
A
---------------------------------------------------

7-9
[10134425]
* Which of the following correctly shows the distribution of cartilage and ciliated
epithelial cells in different parts of the human breathing system?
Part Cartilage Ciliated epithelial cells
A air sacs absent present
B bronchioles present present
C bronchi present absent
D trachea present present
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10134426]
* Which of the following statements about the transport of carbon dioxide
produced by body cells are correct?
(1) Most of the carbon dioxide produced by body cells is transported in the
form of hydrogencarbonate ions.
(2) The reaction that forms hydrogencarbonate ions from carbon dioxide and
water occurs in the red blood cells.
(3) The reaction that forms hydrogencarbonate ions from carbon dioxide and
water is catalysed by an enzyme.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10134430]
* What is the advantage of having a large number of air sacs in the lungs?
A They provide a smaller volume for gas exchange.
B They provide a larger surface area for gas exchange.
C They produce more mucus for dissolving gases.
D They provide a greater support to the lungs.
B
---------------------------------------------------
© Oxford University Press 0

7-1
[10134455]
* The red blood cells have a large surface area to volume ratio because they
A have a flexible membrane.
B have a biconcave disc shape.
C have no nucleus when mature.
D are fully packed with haemoglobin.
B
---------------------------------------------------
[10134467]
* Which of the following structures is/are supported by cartilages?
(1) bronchus
(2) bronchiole
(3) air sac
A (1) only
B (2) only
C (3) only
D (1) and (2) only
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134491]
* Which of the following combinations of the structures in the respiratory tract and
their functions is not correct?
Structure Function
A ciliated epithelial cell has cilia which sweep the mucus towards the
pharynx
B pleural membrane secretes a watery fluid which allows gases to
dissolve before diffusing across the walls of air sacs
C epiglottis covers the opening of trachea during swallowing
D vocal cord vibrates to produce sound
B
---------------------------------------------------

7-1
[10134492]
Which of the following statements about the transport of oxygen in the human
body are correct?
(1) Oxygen is taken up by red blood cells in the lungs.
(2) Oxygen combines with haemoglobin to form oxyhaemoglobin in the red
blood cells.
(3) Oxyhaemoglobin dissolves in the plasma and is carried to the body cells.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134496]
* Directions: The following two questions refer to the diagram below, which
shows a structure in the human breathing system.
Which of the following comparisons between the composition of the blood in

blood vessels X and Y is correct?
X Y
A more oxygen more carbon dioxide
B more carbon dioxide more oxygen
C no oxygen no carbon dioxide
D no carbon dioxide no oxygen
A
---------------------------------------------------

7-1
[10134537]
* Which of the following adaptive features of the structure are shown in the
diagram?
(1) It has a large surface area.
(2) It is surrounded by a network of capillary.
(3) Its wall is only one-cell thick.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134558]
Inhalation is an active process because it involves
(1) expansion of the lungs.
(2) contraction of the intercostal muscles.
(3) contraction of the diaphragm muscles.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
C
---------------------------------------------------
[10134559]
* Which of the following combinations of the process and its description is
correct?
Process Description
A inhalation bringing fresh air to the lungs and removing carbon
dioxide from the lungs
B ventilation increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity
C breathing moving air into and out of the lungs
D gas exchange decreasing the volume of the thoracic cavity
C
---------------------------------------------------

7-1
[10134561]
shows an experimental set-up used to compare the composition of inhaled and
exhaled air. A person breathes slowly and deeply for 20 times through the
mouthpiece.
What is the colour of the hydrogencarbonate indicator in the two boiling tubes at
the end of the experiment?
P Q
A red yellow
B purple red
C yellow red
D yellow purple
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134565]
* What conclusion can be drawn from the results of this experiment?
(1) The oxygen content in the inhaled air is higher than that in the exhaled air.
(2) The carbon dioxide content in the exhaled air is higher than that in the
inhaled air.
(3) In the process of gas exchange, carbon dioxide diffuses from the capillaries
into the air sac.
A (2) only
B (3) only
C (1) and (2) only
D (2) and (3) only
A
---------------------------------------------------

7-1
[10134577]
shows a model illustrating the movement of the ribs during breathing. The model
changes from position 1 to position 2 when wooden rod S is raised by hand.
Which of the following correctly identifies the structures represented by P, Q and

R?
P Q R
A sternum vertebral column intercostal muscle
B sternum vertebral column pleural membrane
C vertebral column sternum intercostal muscle
D vertebral column sternum pleural membrane
C
---------------------------------------------------
[10134595]
* Which of the following can be illustrated by the model when wooden rod S is
raised by hand?
(1) the upward and outward movement of the ribs
(2) the downward movement of the diaphragm
(3) the contraction of intercostal muscles
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
B
---------------------------------------------------

7-1
[10134601]
Directions: The following two questions refer to the diagram below, which
shows a group of cells lining the respiratory tract.
What is the function of structure X?

A To trap dust particles.
B To sweep the mucus.
C To provide a larger surface area for gas exchange.
D To warm up the incoming air.
B
---------------------------------------------------
[10134602]
What is cell Y?
A mucus-secreting cell
B ciliated epithelial cell
C capillary
D muscle cell
A
---------------------------------------------------

7-1
[10134609]
* The diagram below shows the blood flow in the site of gas exchange in humans.
Which of the following correctly identifies X and Y?

X Y
A lungs heart
B all parts of the body except lungs lungs
C heart all parts of the body except lungs
D heart heart
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10134613]
* Mucus in the respiratory tract helps
(1) warm up the air.
(2) moisten the air.
(3) trap dust particles in the air.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
C
---------------------------------------------------

7-1
[10134614]
Which of the following events occur during exhalation in humans?
(1) The diaphragm muscles contract.
(2) The intercostal muscles relax.
(3) The rib cage moves inwards and downwards.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
C
---------------------------------------------------
[10134623]
Inhaled air and exhaled air have a different percentage of
(1) oxygen.
(2) nitrogen.
(3) water vapour.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
B
---------------------------------------------------
[10134629]
Which of the following is/are found in the nasal cavity?
(1) ciliated epithelial cells
(2) mucus-secreting cells
(3) hairs
A (1) only
B (1) and (2) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
D
---------------------------------------------------

7-1
[10134651]
* The efficiency of gas exchange in lungs is increased by
A increasing the length of the trachea.
B increasing the number of white blood cells entering the lungs.
C increasing the thickness of the walls of the bronchioles.
D increasing the surface area of the air sacs.
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10134662]
C-shaped cartilages are present in the wall of trachea. These cartilages
A trap dust particles and bacteria.
B warm up the incoming air.
C vibrate to produce sound.
D keep the trachea open during breathing.
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10134674]
In humans, gas exchange occurs in
A the larynx.
B the air sacs.
C the trachea.
D the bronchi.
B
---------------------------------------------------
[10134678]
In the thoracic cavity, the lungs are enclosed by
A the inner and outer pleural membranes.
B the inner and outer cell membranes.
C the inner and outer synovial membranes.
D the inner and outer plasma membranes.
A
---------------------------------------------------

7-1
[10134686]
Which of the following shows the pathway of air flowing into our body?
A nasal cavity → trachea → air sac → bronchus → nostril
B nostril → nasal cavity → bronchus → trachea → air sac
C nostril → nasal cavity → trachea → bronchus → air sac
D trachea → nostril → nasal cavity → bronchus → air sac
C
---------------------------------------------------
[10134692]
* Which of the following comparisons of inhaled and exhaled air is correct?
Inhaled air Exhaled air
A 21% oxygen 16% oxygen
B 4% carbon dioxide 0.03% carbon dioxide
C saturated with water vapour variable amount of water vapour
D about 37 °C variable temperature
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134723]
* The diagram below shows an air sac in the human lungs.
Which of the following features does the air sac have to increase the efficiency
of gas exchange?
A moist surface, thin wall and large surface area
B moist surface, supported by cartilage and large surface area
C thin wall, richly supplied with capillaries and muscular wall
D thin wall, richly supplied with capillaries and supported by cartilage
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134725]
Which of the following statements about the adaptations of air sacs for gas
exchange is/are correct?
(1) They have thick walls.
(2) They are richly supplied with capillaries.
(3) They provide a large surface area.
A (1) only
B (3) only
C (2) and (3) only

7-2
D (1), (2) and (3)

C
---------------------------------------------------
[10134739]
* Which of the following shows the pathway of air flowing out of our body during
exhalation?
A air sac → bronchiole → bronchus → trachea
B air sac → bronchiole → trachea → bronchus
C bronchiole → air sac → bronchus → trachea
D bronchiole → air sac → trachea → bronchus
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134740]
Which of the following combinations shows the main forms in which oxygen
and carbon dioxide are carried in the blood?
Oxygen Carbon dioxide
A oxyhaemoglobin carbonate ions
B oxyhaemoglobin hydrogencarbonate ions
C oxygen gas carbon dioxide gas
D oxygen gas hydrogencarbonate ions
B
---------------------------------------------------

7-2
[10134755]
shows an experimental set-up used to study the effect of oxygen on chicken
blood. Manganese dioxide catalyses the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide into
oxygen and water. Chicken blood contains haemoglobin which is similar to that
in human blood.
What will be the colour change of the blood?

A from bright red to purplish red
B from purplish red to bright red
C from bright red to blue
D no colour change
B
---------------------------------------------------

7-2
[10134758]
* Which of the following statements are correct?
(1) The colour change is reversible if carbon dioxide is bubbled into the blood.
(2) Haemoglobin becomes bright red in colour when combined with oxygen.
(3) At high carbon dioxide concentration, oxyhaemoglobin forms.
A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only
C (2) and (3) only
D (1), (2) and (3)
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134761]
Carbon dioxide is mainly carried in the blood in the form of
A carbon dioxide gas.
B carbonate ions.
C carboxyhaemoglobin.
D hydrogencarbonate ions.
D
---------------------------------------------------
[10134762]
* C-shaped cartilages are present in
A the trachea only.
B the trachea and bronchi only.
C the bronchi and bronchioles only.
D the trachea, bronchi and bronchioles.
A
---------------------------------------------------
[10134765]
Which of the following is not an adaptive feature of an air sac for its function?
A It is lined with mucus to trap dust particles and bacteria.
B Its moist inner surface allows gases to dissolve.
C Its thin epithelium decreases the diffusion distance of gases.
D It is richly supplied with capillaries for rapid transport of gases.
A
---------------------------------------------------

7-2
[10134766]
Directions: The following two questions refer to the bell-jar model below, which
illustrates the process of breathing in humans.
Which structure of the human breathing system does X represent?

A the lungs
B the thoracic wall
C the sternum
D the intercostal muscles
B
---------------------------------------------------
[10134771]
What will happen if Z is pushed upwards?
A X will move upwards and air will rush in through W.
B X will move downwards and volume of Y will decrease.
C Volume of Y will decrease and air will be forced out through W.
D Volume of Y will increase and air will rush in through W.
C
---------------------------------------------------

7-2
[10134774]
* The diagram below shows the human breathing system.
Where can the ciliated epithelial cells and mucus-secreting cells be found?
A X only
B W, X and Y only
C X, Y and Z only
D W, X, Y and Z
D
---------------------------------------------------

7-2
Question Bank Short questions
Short questions
[10134851]
* The diagram below shows a type of tissue found in the respiratory system.
a State where in the respiratory system you would find this type of tissue.
(1 mark)
b Suggest why cells in this type of tissue have large numbers of mitochondria.
(2 marks)
c Explain how this tissue helps to protect against lung infections. (3 marks)
OCR GCE (AS) Human Biology Molecules, Blood and Gas
Exchange
Jan 2012 Q1
-- answer --
a Nasal cavity / trachea / bronchi / bronchioles
1m
b The cells need to carry out respiration to release energy
1m
for the movement of cilia.
1m
c Mucus-secreting cells secrete mucus
1m
to trap bacteria.
1m
The cilia beat to sweep mucus towards the pharynx. The mucus is then
swallowed or coughed up.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-2
[10134852]
For efficient gaseous exchange to occur, a steep diffusion gradient must be
maintained between the air in the air sacs and the blood. A steep diffusion
gradient can be maintained by ventilating the lungs. This refreshes the air in the
air sacs.
a Explain how refreshing the air in the air sacs helps to maintain a steep
diffusion gradient.
(2 marks)
b Describe and explain one o ther w
ay in which a steep diffusion gradient is
maintained in the lungs.
(2 marks)
OCR GCE (AS) Cells, Exchange and Transport Jan 2012
Q1b
-- answer --
a Refreshing the air in the air sacs increases the concentration of oxygen in the air
sacs. This helps maintain a higher oxygen concentration than in the blood. 1m
It also decreases the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air sacs. This helps
maintain a lower carbon dioxide concentration than in the blood.
1m
b The continuous blood flow in the capillaries
1m
brings in more carbon dioxide / takes away more oxygen.
1m
OR
Oxygen combines with haemoglobin
1m
to keep the oxygen concentration in blood / plasma low.
1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10134859]
* In the human breathing system, the bronchi are lined with cilia and covered with
mucus.
a State one function of the cilia and the mucus. (2
marks)
b Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that inhibit the movement of cilia in the
bronchi. Based on this fact, explain why smokers have a higher risk of
getting lung infections.
(3 marks)
-- answer --
a The mucus traps dust particles and bacteria in the incoming air.
1m
The cilia beat to sweep the mucus towards the pharynx, where the mucus is
swallowed or coughed up.
1m
b As the beating of cilia is inhibited by the chemicals, mucus accumulates in the
bronchi.
1m
Bacteria trapped in the mucus cannot be removed from the bronchi. 1m
They may enter the lungs and cause infections.
1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10134862]
Complete the following paragraph with suitable words. (5

7-2
marks)
Blood carries oxygen and carbon dioxide around the body. Red blood cells carry
oxygen in the form of a from the b to the
body tissue, where oxygen is released and enters the body cells for respiration.
On the other hand, c carries carbon dioxide in the form
of d ions, which are formed from the reaction between
carbon dioxide and e in the red blood cells. The ions are carried
from the body tissue to the air sacs of the lungs.
-- answer --
a oxyhaemoglobin
1m
b lungs
1m
c plasma
1m
d hydrogencarbonate
1m
e water
1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10134868]
Describe how human lungs are adapted for their functions in the following ways.
a providing a large surface area
b providing a thin surface
c maintaining a steep concentration gradient
d preventing excess water loss
(4 marks)
-- answer --
a The lungs contain a large number of air sacs. This provides a large surface area
for diffusion of gases.
1m
b The walls of air sacs are one-cell thick / very thin. This reduces the diffusion
distance of gases.
1m
c Ventilation brings fresh air to the lungs to maintain a high oxygen content in the
lungs and to remove carbon dioxide from the lungs. /
The lungs are richly supplied with capillary which allows oxygenated blood to be
carried away from the air sacs and deoxygenated blood to be carried to the air
sacs.
1m
d The lungs are deep inside the body.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-2
[10134871]
** In an investigation of the change in the composition of air during breathing, the
change in the oxygen and carbon dioxide content of the air in the nasal cavity of
a person was recorded. The results are shown in the graphs below.
a Using the graphs above, estimate the percentage of oxygen and carbon
dioxide in the atmospheric air.
(2 marks)
b Account for the change in the percentage of carbon dioxide during
exhalation with reference to the air movement along the respiratory tract.
(3 marks)
-- answer --
a Oxygen: 21%
1m
Carbon dioxide: 0%
1m
b The person is breathing out during 3–6 s.
From 3–3.5 s, the air from the air sacs has not yet reached the nasal cavity. 1m
From 3.5–5 s, the air from the air sacs mixed with the fresh air in the respiratory
tract reaches the nasal cavity.
1m
From 5–6 s the whole respiratory tract is saturated with the air from the air sacs,
thus the carbon dioxide content keeps constant at the highest value. 1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-2
[10134875]
* Read the following article and answer the questions.
Sinuses (竇) are a group of hollow air spaces within the skull
surrounding the nose. They help in insulating the skull, reducing the weight of
the skull and allowing the sound to resonate in the skull.
The sinuses are lined with mucus-secreting cells and ciliated epithelial
cells. Under normal conditions, the mucus produced by the cells is drained
into the nasal cavity through openings of the sinuses. When the respiratory
tract is infected, the lining of the nasal cavity swells up, blocking the openings
between the sinuses and the nasal cavity. The mucus is trapped inside the
sinuses. This may result in sinus infection called sinusitis (鼻竇炎).
Symptoms of sinusitis include facial pain and thick nasal secretions.
Sinusitis normally ends on its own. If the symptoms last for a long period of
time, people should go to see a doctor and receive medical treatments.
a State the functions of mucus and cilia in the sinuses. (2

marks)
b How does the mucus trapped in the sinuses result in sinusitis? (1 mark)
c Suggest another symptom of sinusitis with a reason. (2
marks)
-- answer --
a The mucus traps dust particles and bacteria.
1m
The cilia beat to sweep the mucus towards the nasal cavity. The mucus is then
removed.
1m
b The mucus trapped in the sinuses may contain bacteria. These bacteria cause
sinusitis.
1m
c Sore throat
1m
Mucus containing bacteria is drained into the back of the throat from the sinuses
and the pathogens cause an infection.
1m
(or other reasonable answers)
---------------------------------------------------

7-3
[10134877]
* Red blood cells are one type of cells that can be found in human blood.
a The red colour of red blood cells is due to the presence of a pigment which
carries oxygen. Give the name of the pigment and write the word equation
for its reaction with oxygen.
(2 marks)
A climber who used to live in Hong Kong has moved to Tibet at high altitude to
prepare for climbing Mount Everest. The table below shows the number of red
blood cells in 1 mm3 of blood when he was living in Hong Kong and after he got
used to the high altitude of Tibet.
Location Number of red blood cells (per mm3 of blood)

In Hong Kong 5.0 x 106
In Tibet 5.6 x 106
b Calculate the percentage increase in the number of red blood cells in 1 mm3
of blood after he got used to the high altitude of Tibet. (2
marks)
c In Tibet, air is less dense. The number of oxygen molecules taken in per
breath is smaller. Explain the importance of having a greater number of red
blood cells for the climber to stay in Tibet.
(2 marks)
-- answer --
a haemoglobin
1m
1m
b (5.6 x 106 – 5.0 x 106) / (5.0 x 106) x 100%
1m
= 12%
1m
c A greater number of red blood cells increases the uptake of oxygen into the blood.
1m
This ensures that enough oxygen is supplied to the body cells of the climber to
maintain normal body functions.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-3
[10134882]
The diagram below shows an air sac of a healthy person and an air sac of a
person with emphysema.
State how the oxygen content in the exhaled air of the person with emphysema is
different from that of a healthy person. Explain with reference to the diagram.
(4 marks)
-- answer --
The oxygen content is higher.
1m
The air sac of the person with emphysema has a smaller surface area. 1m
This decreases the surface area for the diffusion of oxygen during gas exchange.
1m
The rate of oxygen diffusion from the air in the air sacs to the blood decreases. 1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10134891]
The photomicrograph below shows a section of lung tissue.
a State how cell layer X is adapted to its functions in gas exchange.
(4 marks)
b How is carbon dioxide transported in the blood? (3
marks)

7-3
-- answer --
a The cells in cell layer X are thin / flattened.
1m
This reduces the diffusion distance of gases.
1m
Cell layer X has a large surface area.
1m
This increases the rate of diffusion.
1m
b Most carbon dioxide diffuses into red blood cells
1m
and reacts with water to form hydrogencarbonate ions.
1m
The ions then diffuse out of the red blood cells and are carried by the plasma.
1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10134893]
* a In the human lungs, there are several hundred million of air sacs. Explain how
this makes gas exchange efficient. (1
mark)
b The lumen of the capillaries surrounding the air sacs is only slightly larger
than the diameter of a red blood cell. Explain one way in which the small
lumen of the capillaries facilitates gas exchange. (2
marks)
c In the lungs of patients who suffer from a certain disease, only a very small
volume of air in the air sacs can be replaced in each breath. Explain how
this affects the efficiency of gas exchange in the air sacs. (2 marks)
-- answer --
a This provides a very large surface area for the diffusion of gases.
1m
b During gas exchange, oxygen diffuses into red blood cells after entering the
capillaries.
1m
Small lumen shortens the diffusion distance of oxygen into the red blood cells.
1m
c The concentration gradient of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air sacs
and the blood in the capillaries becomes less steep.
1m
Therefore, the rate of diffusion decreases. This lowers the efficiency of gas
exchange.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-3
[10134922]
* The diagram below shows an experimental set-up used by Maggie to compare
the carbon dioxide content of inhaled air and exhaled air.
a Maggie intended to breathe through tube X but her teacher stopped her.
Why? Which tube should she breathe through? (2
marks)
b Maggie then breathed in and out through the correct tube several times.
What would be observed in flasks P and Q?
(2 marks)
c What did the results tell Maggie about the carbon dioxide content of inhaled
air and exhaled air?
(1 mark)
d Suggest another indicator that could be used in this experiment. (1 mark)
-- answer --
a She would suck up the lime water if she breathed through tube X. 1m
She should breathe through tube Y.
1m
b The lime water in flask P remained clear
1m
while that in flask Q turned milky.
1m
c Exhaled air contains more carbon dioxide than the inhaled air. 1m
d Red hydrogencarbonate indicator
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-3
[10134929]
* The diagram below shows the approximate concentrations of substances inside
an air sac and a capillary in the lungs.
a In which directions will oxygen and carbon dioxide diffuse between the
capillary and the air sac? Explain briefly. (2
marks)
b What are the adaptive features of lungs for efficient gas exchange? State
three of them.
(3 marks)
c Patients with a certain genetic disease produce a large amount of sticky
mucus in their lungs. They often have difficulty breathing.
Explain why they often have difficulty breathing. (2
marks)
-- answer --
a Oxygen will diffuse from the air sac to the capillary because oxygen concentration
in the air sac is higher than that in the capillary.
1m
Carbon dioxide will diffuse from the capillary to the air sac because carbon
dioxide concentration in the capillary is higher than that in the air sac. 1m
b A large number of air sacs are present in the lungs. /
The walls of air sacs are very thin / only one-cell thick. /
The inner surfaces of air sacs are moist / lined with a film of water. /
Air sacs are richly supplied with capillaries. /
The walls of air sacs are in close contact with capillaries. (any 3) 1m x 3
c The sticky mucus blocks their bronchioles.
1m
This reduces the amount of fresh air flowing into the air sacs for gas exchange.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-3
[10134943]
* a Comparing with a smaller number of large air sacs, gas exchange in a larger
number of small air sacs is more efficient. Why? (2
marks)
b The diagram below shows part of an air sac and a capillary.
i Name the type of cells in cell layer X.

(1 mark)
ii What is Y? State its function in gas exchange. (2
marks)
c At the moment before exhalation, the composition of the air in the air sacs
differs from that of the air in the trachea.
i How does the composition differ?
(1 mark)
ii Explain why there is a difference in composition. (1
mark)
-- answer --
a The surface area to volume ratio of a larger number of small air sacs is larger.
1m
This facilitates diffusion of gases.
1m
b i Epithelial cells
1m
ii Water film
1m
It allows gases in inhaled air to dissolve in it before they diffuse across the
walls of the air sacs.
1m
c i The air in air sacs contains less oxygen, more carbon dioxide and more
water vapour.
1m
ii Gas exchange occurs in air sacs but not in trachea.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-3
Question Bank Structured questions
Structured questions
[10135039]
* The diagram below shows the changes in the volume of air in the lungs of a
student at rest during one breath.
a Explain what causes the change in the volume of air between points B and
C.
(4 marks)
b Using the diagram, calculate the breathing rate of this student in breaths per
minute.
(2 marks)
c About 1 dm3 of air cannot be expelled from the lungs. This is known as the
residual volume. Suggest why it is not possible to expel all the air from the
lungs.
(2 marks)
OCR GCE (AS) Cells, Exchange and Transport May
2012 Q5
-- answer --
a The intercostal muscles relax. The rib cage moves downwards and inwards.
1m
The diaphragm muscles relax. The diaphragm moves upwards.
1m
The volume of the thoracic cavity decreases,
1m
causing the volume of the lungs to decrease.
1m
b 60 / 5
1m
= 12 breaths per minute
1m
c The rib cage / lungs cannot be completely compressed.
1m
The bronchi are held open by cartilage.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-3
[10135040]
* The graphs below show the change in volume of the thoracic cavity and the
change in pressure in the lungs of a person when he is at rest.
Fig a
Fig b
a State the period of time during which the person is

i breathing in.
(1 mark)
ii breathing out.
(1 mark)
b Estimate the rate of breathing, in number of breaths per minute, of the
person.
(2 marks)
c Describe the state of the intercostal muscles and the diaphragm at 1 s.
(2 marks)
d With reference to the graphs, explain how the change in volume of thoracic
cavity leads to exhalation.
(3 marks)
-- answer --
a i 0–2.5 s
1m
ii 2.5–5 s
1m
b One breath takes 5 s.
1m
The rate of breathing
1m
c At 1 s, the person is breathing in.

7-3
The intercostal muscles contract.

1m
The diaphragm becomes flattened.
1m
d As the volume of thoracic cavity decreases during 2.5–5 s as shown in Fig a,
1m
the air pressure in the lungs is higher than the atmospheric pressure as shown in
Fig b.
1m
Thus, air is forced out of the lungs.
1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10135042]
* The table below shows the percentage of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the
inhaled air, air in the air sacs and exhaled air.
Inhaled air Air in the air sacs Exhaled air

Oxygen (%) 20.8 13.3 15.9
Carbon dioxide (%) 0.03 5 4.1
a Explain why the air in the air sacs has a lower oxygen concentration than
the inhaled air.
(1 mark)
b Explain why the exhaled air has a lower carbon dioxide concentration than
the air in the air sacs.
(2 marks)
c Apart from the concentrations of oxygen and carbon dioxide, state one other
difference between the inhaled and exhaled air. Explain briefly. (2 marks)
d Suggest one method to show the difference in the oxygen content of inhaled
air and exhaled air.
(3 marks)
-- answer --
a In the air sacs, oxygen in the air diffuses into the blood in the capillaries. 1m
b During exhalation, air from the air sacs mixes with air in the respiratory tract,
1m
which has a lower carbon dioxide concentration.
1m
c The exhaled air contains more water vapour than the inhaled air. 1m
Air is moistened by the mucus lining the respiratory tract and the water film lining
the air sacs.
1m
OR
The exhaled air is warmer than the inhaled air.
1m
The exhaled air is warmed by the blood in the capillaries on the wall of the nasal
cavity.
1m
d Collect a jar of inhaled air and a jar of exhaled air.
1m
Lower a burning candle quickly into each jar of gas.
1m
Compare the time that the candles burn inside the two jars of gases. 1m
---------------------------------------------------
7-3
[10135062]
The diagram below shows an air sac and a capillary near it.
a Compare the composition of the blood at positions X and Y. Explain the

differences.
(4 marks)
b The concentration of oxygen in the air sacs is high. Explain how this can be
maintained.
(2 marks)
c The wall of air sacs becomes thicker as people get older. Explain why this
makes older people difficult to do exercise for a prolonged period of time.
(3 marks)
-- answer --
a Blood at position Y has a higher oxygen concentration. Oxygen diffuses from the
air in the air sacs into the blood during gas exchange. /
Blood at position Y has a lower carbon dioxide concentration. Carbon dioxide in
the blood diffuses into the air sacs during gas exchange. /
Blood in position Y has less glucose. Glucose diffuses into the cells on the walls
of air sacs for their use. (any 2)
2m x 2
b During ventilation, some air in the air sacs is replaced by fresh air. 1m
The fresh air has a high oxygen concentration.
1m
c Thicker wall increases the diffusion distance of oxygen. 1m
It takes a longer time for oxygen from the air sacs to diffuse into the blood.
1m
The rate of respiration decreases and thus less energy is available for doing
exercise.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-4
[10135063]
The photomicrograph below shows a section of human lung tissue.
a Name structure X.
(1 mark)
b With reference to the photomicrograph, describe two adaptive features of
structure X for gas exchange.
(4 marks)
c Describe the mechanism by which the air in structure X goes to the
atmosphere.
(4 marks)
-- answer --
a Air sac
1m
b A large number of structure X are present in the lungs.
1m
This provides a very large surface area for the diffusion of gases. 1m
The wall of structure X is very thin / one-cell thick.
1m
This reduces the diffusion distance of gases.
1m
c The intercostal muscles relax. The rib cage moves downwards and inwards. 1m
The diaphragm muscles relax. The diaphragm recoils to dome shape. 1m
The volume of the thoracic cavity decreases, and hence the volume of the lungs.
1m
The air pressure in the lungs becomes higher than the atmospheric pressure. Air
is forced out of the lungs.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-4
[10135073]
* The diagram below shows a structure in the human lungs which provides a
surface for gas exchange.
a Name this structure.

(1 mark)
b Describe how oxygen in the air is brought into this structure. (4 marks)
c With reference to one f eature in the diagram, explain how the lung is
adapted to gas exchange.
(2 marks)
d Patients suffering from cystic fibrosis produce viscous mucus. The viscous
mucus accumulates in the lungs and along the airway to the lungs. State
how gas exchange is affected by the disease and give two reasons for your
answer.
(3 marks)
-- answer --
a Air sac
1m
b The intercostal muscles contract. The rib cage moves upwards and outwards.
1m
The diaphragm muscles contract. The diaphragm becomes flattened. 1m
The volume of the thoracic cavity increases, and hence the volume of the lungs.
1m
The air pressure in the lungs becomes lower than the atmospheric pressure. Air
rushes into the lungs (air sacs).
1m
c The wall of the air sac is very thin.
1m
This reduces the diffusion distance of the gases.
1m
OR
The inner surface of the air sac is moist / lined with a film of water. 1m
This allows gases in the inhaled air to dissolve in the water film before diffusing
across the wall of the air sac.
1m

7-4
d The efficiency of gas exchange is lowered.

1m
The mucus blocks the airway, reducing the amount of gas entering the lungs.
1m
The mucus on the air sacs reduces the surface area for gas exchange / increases
the diffusion distance between the air sacs and the capillaries. 1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10135079]
* The diagram below shows a set-up which can be used to compare the carbon
dioxide content of inhaled and exhaled air. To obtain results, a person breathes in
and out through the mouthpiece.
a Draw arrows on this diagram to show the direction which air would take in
passing through the set-up.
(1 mark)
b Name a suitable carbon dioxide indicator which could be used in this set-up.
(1 mark)
c Describe the results you would expect in each boiling tube if a person
breathed in and out through the mouthpiece several times. (2
marks)
d i Describe an experiment you can perform in the school laboratory to
compare the oxygen content of inhaled and exhaled air. (4 marks)
ii Describe and explain the results you expect to get. (2 marks)
-- answer --
a

7-4
1m
b Red hydrogencarbonate indicator / lime water
1m
c X: Hydrogencarbonate indicator turns yellow / lime water turns milky. 1m
Y: Hydrogencarbonate indicator remains red / lime water remains clear. 1m
d i Collect a jar of atmospheric air as inhaled air.
1m
Collect a jar of exhaled air by blowing slowly into a gas jar over water. 1m
Lower a burning candle quickly into each jar.
1m
Record how long the candle can burn in each jar.
1m
ii The candle in the jar of inhaled air can burn longer.
1m
It is because inhaled air contains more oxygen than exhaled air. 1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10135089]
** a Describe how the actions of the diaphragm leads to inhalation. (3 marks)
b When a person dives in the water, he/she cannot obtain oxygen from the air.
An investigation was done to find out the amount of blood flowing into the
organs related to breathing during diving. The table below shows the flow
of blood to the lungs and to the diaphragm in a person when he is on land
and when he is under water.
Blood flow (arbitrary unit)

Organ
On land Under water
Lungs 0.92 0.50
Diaphragm 0.18 0.01
i Calculate the percentage change in the blood flow to the lungs when
the person is under water. Show your working. (2
marks)
ii State the importance of supplying blood to the lungs during diving.
(1 mark)
iii Explain why there is a great decrease in blood flow to the diaphragm
during diving.

7-4
(2 marks)
-- answer --
a The diaphragm becomes flattened.
1m
The volume of the thoracic cavity increases, and hence the volume of the lungs.
1m
rushes into the lungs.
1m
b i [(0.50–0.92) / 0.92] x 100%
1m
= –45.7%
1m
ii To support the cellular activities in the lungs.
1m
iii The diaphragm needs not to contract during diving.
1m
The amount of glucose and oxygen needed is reduced, and the amount of
carbon dioxide needed to be removed is also reduced. 1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10135108]
** The graph below shows the change in air pressure in the thoracic cavity during
normal ventilation.
a i How does the carbon dioxide concentration in the air flowing through
the respiratory tract differ at time X and Y? (1
mark)
ii Describe how the diffusion of gases in air sacs causes such a
difference.
(2 marks)
b Use the information in the graph, sketch a curve to show how the volume of
the lungs changes during inhalation.
(2 marks)

7-4
c Describe how the actions of intercostal muscles and diaphragm muscles

lead to the changes in the volume of the lungs during inhalation. (3 marks)
-- answer --
a i The carbon dioxide concentration at time Y is higher than that at time X.
1m
ii Carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the air in the air sacs 1m
as the carbon dioxide concentration in blood is higher than that in the air
sacs.
1m
b
2m
c The intercostal muscles contract. This causes the rib cage to move upwards and
outwards.
1m
The diaphragm muscles contract. This causes the diaphragm to become
flattened.
1m
The movements increase the volume of the thoracic cavity, and hence the volume
of the lungs.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-4
[10135127]
** The diagram below shows a model demonstrating the movements of different
parts of the human body during breathing.
a Which parts of the human body are represented by P and Q? (2 marks)

b Sketch the appearance of the model which illustrates the movements during
inhalation.
(2 marks)
c Describe the changes in the parts represented by P and Q during inhalation
and the results of these changes.
(4 marks)
d Draw a curve on the following graph to show the change in air pressure in
the lungs during inhalation and exhalation.
(2 marks)
-- answer --
a P: ribs
1m
Q: intercostal muscles
1m
b Diagram showing P in horizontal position
1m
and Q shortened.
1m
c The intercostal muscles (represented by Q) contract.

7-4
1m
The ribs (represented by P) move upwards and outwards.
1m
This increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, and hence the volume of the
lungs.
1m
rushes into the lungs.
1m
d Curve showing the air pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure during
exhalation and the air pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure during
inhalation.
2m
---------------------------------------------------
[10135131]
* The diagram below shows a bell-jar model.
a Which structures in the human body do parts P, Q and R represent?
(3 marks)
b The air entering the human part represented by P is clean and moist. How
can this be done?
(3 marks)
c What happens to the balloons when the rubber sheet is pulled downwards?
Which part of the breathing process does this represent? (2 marks)
d In what way does this model inaccurate in illustrating the breathing actions
in humans?
(2 marks)
-- answer --
a P: trachea
1m
Q: bronchus
1m
R: thoracic wall

7-4
1m
b Hairs in the nostrils filter larger dust particles from the air. 1m
Mucus secreted by the mucus-secreting cells lining the respiratory tract traps dust
particles and bacteria.
1m
Mucus is then removed by the beating of cilia on the ciliated epithelial cells.
1m
c The balloons inflate / increase in volume.
1m
This represents inhalation / breathing in.
1m
d The space between the lungs and the wall of thoracic cavity is filled with pleural
fluid instead of air. /
When at rest, the diaphragm is dome-shaped while the rubber sheet lies flat. /
The movement of the diaphragm is controlled by muscle contraction and
relaxation while that of the rubber sheet is controlled by hand. /
The size of the thoracic cavity can be changed by movement of the rib cage while
the bell jar is rigid. (any 2)
1m x 2
---------------------------------------------------
[10135139]
** The diagram below shows a model which demonstrates the breathing process of
humans.
a Which structures of the human breathing system do the following parts of

the model represent?
i the plunger
(1 mark)
ii the balloon
(1 mark)
iii the syringe barrel
(1 mark)
iv the hole in the cork
(1 mark)
b i What happens to the balloon when hole X is closed and the plunger is
pulled out at the same time?
(1 mark)
ii Which part of the breathing process does the process described in i
represent?
(1 mark)
iii Explain the mechanism of the process in ii in terms of the pressure in
space Y.

7-4
(3 marks)
c State one feature of breathing that cannot be shown by the model.
(1 mark)
d Hole X represents an injury to the thoracic wall, for example, a gunshot
wound. Describe how the injury will affect the breathing process.
(2 marks)
-- answer --
a i Diaphragm
1m
ii Lungs
1m
iii Thoracic wall / rib cage
1m
iv Trachea / mouth / nose
1m
b i The balloons inflate / increase in volume.
1m
ii This represents inhalation / breathing in.
1m
iii During inhalation, the diaphragm muscles contract and the diaphragm
becomes flattened.
1m
The volume of the thoracic cavity (space Y) increases and hence the air
pressure inside decreases.
1m
The volume of the lungs increases and the air pressure inside becomes
lower than the atmospheric pressure. Air rushes into the lungs. 1m
c The small space between the lungs and the wall of thoracic cavity is filled with
pleural fluid instead of air. /
When at rest, the diaphragm is dome-shaped while the bottom of the plunger is
flat. /
The movement of the diaphragm is controlled by muscle contraction and
relaxation while that of the plunger is controlled by hand. /
The size of the thoracic cavity can be changed by movement of the rib cage while
the syringe barrel is rigid.
1m
d The pressure inside the thoracic cavity (space Y) will be the same as the
atmospheric pressure even when the diaphragm becomes flattened. 1m
No pressure difference will exist between the lungs and the atmosphere and thus
air will not rush into the lungs.
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-5
[10135146]
* The diagram below shows a set-up used to compare the carbon dioxide content
of inhaled and exhaled air. A student breathed in and out slowly through the
set-up several times.
a Describe any change in the indicator in boiling tubes P and Q. Explain the
observation.
(4 marks)
b Explain any difference in the carbon dioxide content of the inhaled and
exhaled air.
(2 marks)
c To get a more reliable result, the experiment was repeated several times
with the same set-up. Name two factors that have to be kept constant to
make sure that the results were valid.
(2 marks)
d i Besides carbon dioxide and oxygen, name another gas which the
percentage in inhaled and exhaled air differs. (1
mark)
ii Explain why there is such a difference in percentage. (2
marks)
-- answer --
a Boiling tube P: The indicator remained red.
1m
Boiling tube Q: The indicator turned from red to yellow. 1m
The inhaled air contains 0.03% carbon dioxide.
1m
The exhaled air contains 4% carbon dioxide. 1m
b Carbon dioxide produced by the body cells during respiration is transported by the
blood to the air sacs.
1m
During gas exchange, carbon dioxide in the blood diffuses into the air in the air
sacs.
1m
c Volume of the hydrogencarbonate indicator / temperature / rate of breathing (any
2)
1m x 2
d i Water vapour
1m

7-5
ii Air is moistened by the mucus lining the respiratory tract 1m

and the water film lining the air sacs.
1m
---------------------------------------------------
[10135160]
The diagram below shows the site of gas exchange in humans.
a Name structure X. State two ways in which it is adapted for efficient gas
exchange.
(3 marks)
b What gases are exchanged between structure X and blood? State the
directions of the net movement of the gases.
(4 marks)
-- answer --
a Air sac
1m
A large number of it is present in the lungs. /
Its wall is very thin / one-cell thick. /
Its inner surface is moist / lined with a film of water. /
It is richly supplied with capillaries. /
Its wall is in close contact with capillaries. (any 2) 1m
x2
b Oxygen and carbon dioxide
1m x 2
Oxygen diffuses from structure X to the blood. 1m
Carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood to structure X. 1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-5
[10135175]
* The surface area to volume ratio of an organism varies with its size. The table
below shows two spheres X and Y which are used as models of organisms of
different sizes. The surface area and volume of each sphere are given.
Sphere X Sphere Y
Diameter (cm) 2.5 7

Surface area (cm2) 78.5 615.8
Volume (cm3) 65.4 1436.8
a i The surface area to volume ratio of sphere X is 1.2. Calculate the ratio
of sphere Y. Show your working.
(2 marks)
ii Describe how the ratio changes as the size of the sphere increases.
(1 mark)
b i According to a, explain why large organisms like humans need a
breathing system but unicellular organisms like Amoeba d oes not.
(3 marks)
ii Name the organ where gas exchange occurs in humans. (1 mark)
-- answer --
a i 615.8 / 1436.8
1m
= 0.4
1m
ii The ratio becomes smaller as the size of the sphere increases. 1m
b i Unicellular organisms have a larger surface area to volume ratio. 1m
Exchange of gases by diffusion through their body surface is fast enough to
meet their requirements.
1m
Large organisms like humans have a much smaller surface area to volume
ratio. Exchange of gases by diffusion through their body surface is not fast
enough to meet their requirements.
1m
ii Lungs
1m
---------------------------------------------------

7-5
[10135189]
The diagram below shows an air sac in the human breathing system.
a Name P, Q and R.
(3 marks)
b Name the gases that diffuse in the directions shown by arrows X and Y
respectively.
(2 marks)
c State three adaptive features of the air sacs for gas exchange. (3 marks)
-- answer --
a P: wall of the capillary
1m
Q: red blood cell
1m
R: plasma
1m
b X: oxygen
1m
Y: carbon dioxide
1m
c A large number of air sacs are present in the lungs. /
Their walls are very thin / one-cell thick. /
Their inner surfaces are moist / lined with a film of water. /
They are richly supplied with capillaries. /
Their walls are in close contact with capillaries. (any 3) 1m
x3
---------------------------------------------------

7-5
Question Bank Essays
Essays
[10135272]
* Explain why oxygen in the air sacs can enter the red blood cells in the blood
efficiently.
(10 marks)
-- answer --
Any seven from:
1m x 7
A large number of air sacs are present in the lungs. This provides a very large surface
area for the diffusion of oxygen.
The walls of the air sacs and the capillaries are one-cell thick. This reduces the
diffusion distance of oxygen.
The inner surfaces of air sacs are lined with a film of water. This allows oxygen in
inhaled air to dissolve in the water film and diffuse across the walls of the air sacs.
Air sacs are richly supplied with capillaries. This allows rapid transport of oxygen away
from the air sacs. Therefore a steep concentration gradient of oxygen between the air
sacs and the blood can be maintained for efficient diffusion of oxygen.
The walls of air sacs are in close contact with capillaries. This reduces the diffusion
distance of oxygen.
Red blood cells are in a biconcave disc shape. This provides a large surface area to
volume ratio for the diffusion of oxygen into the cells.
The biconcave disc shape of red blood cells also provides a short distance for oxygen
to reach the haemoglobin in the red blood cells rapidly.
Red blood cells are fully packed with haemoglobin which is an excellent oxygen carrier.
Mature red blood cells have no nucleus. This provides more room for holding
haemoglobin.
Communication
3m
---------------------------------------------------

7-5
Question Bank Essays
[10135276]
Describe how inhalation is achieved during ventilation . (10
marks)
-- answer --
The intercostal muscles contract.
1m
This causes the rib cage to move upwards and outwards.
1m
At the same time, the diaphragm muscles contract.
1m
This causes the diaphragm to become flattened.
1m
The movements increase the volume of the thoracic cavity, and hence the volume of
the lungs.
1m
The air pressure in the lungs decreases and becomes lower than the atmospheric
pressure.
1m
Air rushes into the lungs through the respiratory tract.
1m
Communication
3m
---------------------------------------------------

7-5

Gas Exchange in Humans: Multiple-Choice Questions

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New Senior Secondary Mastering Biology (Second Edition) Chapter 7

Question Bank Multiple-choice questions

Chapter 7 Gas exchange in humans

© Oxford University Press ​

During which of the following periods of time do the diaphragm muscles

© Oxford University Press ​

C (1) and (2) only

© Oxford University Press ​

© Oxford University Press ​

D (1) and (2) only

At which of the following time is the person inhaling?

© Oxford University Press ​

© Oxford University Press ​

© Oxford University Press ​

© Oxford University Press ​

© Oxford University Press ​

© Oxford University Press ​ 0

© Oxford University Press ​ 1

Which of the following comparisons between the composition of the blood in

© Oxford University Press ​ 2

© Oxford University Press ​ 3

© Oxford University Press ​ 4

Which of the following correctly identifies the structures represented by P, Q and

© Oxford University Press ​ 5

What is the function of structure X?

© Oxford University Press ​ 6

Which of the following correctly identifies X and Y?

© Oxford University Press ​ 7

© Oxford University Press ​ 8

© Oxford University Press ​ 9

© Oxford University Press ​ 0

D (1), (2) and (3)

© Oxford University Press ​ 1

What will be the colour change of the blood?

© Oxford University Press ​ 2

© Oxford University Press ​ 3

Which structure of the human breathing system does X represent?

© Oxford University Press ​ 4

© Oxford University Press ​ 5

© Oxford University Press ​ 6

© Oxford University Press ​ 7

© Oxford University Press ​ 8

© Oxford University Press ​ 9

a State the functions of mucus and cilia in the sinuses. (2

© Oxford University Press ​ 0

Location Number of red blood cells​ (per mm​3​ of blood)

© Oxford University Press ​ 1

a State how cell layer X is adapted to its functions in gas exchange.

© Oxford University Press ​ 2

© Oxford University Press ​ 3

© Oxford University Press ​ 4

© Oxford University Press ​ 5

i Name the type of cells in cell layer X.

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a State the period of time during which the person is

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The intercostal muscles contract.

Inhaled air Air in the air sacs Exhaled air

a Compare the composition of the blood at positions X and Y. Explain the

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a Name this structure.

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Location Number of red blood cells (per mm3 of blood)

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Blood flow (arbitrary unit)

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