| Front | Why is diffusion of gases between alveolar and blood rapid |
|---|---|
| Back | Red blood cells slowed down as they pass pulmonary capillaries allowing more time for diffusion. The distance between alveolar air and red blood cells reduced as red blood cells flattened against capillary walls. Walls of alveoli and capillaries very thin creating a short diffusion path Blood flow from pulmonary capillaries maintains a concentration gradient Alveoli and pulmonary capillaries have a large total surface area. |
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