QUESTION 18 4 points The respiratory membrane between the alveoli and capillary

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QUESTION 18 4 points The respiratory membrane between the alveoli and capillary beds in the lung is normally quite thin. During pneumonia this membrane becomes thick and swollen. Oxygen exchange in the lungs is reduced causing the patient to be very weak. Explain why and how this thickening of the membrane disrupts normal diffusion of respiratory gases T T I Arial T·-·-·. ' 3(12pt) Path: p Words:0 Click Save and Submit to save and submit. Click Save All Answers to save all answers. Save All Answers Save

Explanation / Answer

The rate of diffusion between two media separated by a barrier is highly dependent on the thickness of the barrier. Normally, the barrier is thin in the lung, allowing for fast and efficient transfer of gases. However, when this membrane thickens, the gas molecules need longer to traverse the membrane, causing a lack of available oxygen to the different cells in the body and causing weakness and fatigue.

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