The organ adapted for gaseous exchange in humans is the lungs.
Key details about the lungs and gaseous exchange:
- The lungs contain tiny air sacs called alveoli where the actual gas exchange takes place.
- Alveoli have large surface areas, thin walls (one cell thick), moist surfaces, and a rich blood supply. These adaptations allow oxygen to diffuse efficiently from the inhaled air into the blood and carbon dioxide to diffuse from the blood to the alveoli to be exhaled.
- Gas exchange occurs by diffusion, moving gases from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
- The lungs are located in the thorax and are protected by the ribcage. They work in conjunction with the diaphragm and intercostal muscles to facilitate breathing and gas movement.
