Chapter 11

Gas Exchange in Humans

How the lungs and alveoli exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide — with an interactive exercise.

Gas exchange in humans happens in the lungs.

Air reaches tiny air sacs called alveoli, where oxygen passes into the blood and carbon dioxide passes out to be breathed away. The alveoli have a large surface area and thin walls for fast diffusion.

Remember

  • Gas exchange happens in the alveoli.
  • Oxygen in, carbon dioxide out.

Stuck on this topic? A verified JomKelas tutor can walk you through it.

Find a verified tutor