How are allveoli designed to maximize the exchange of gases? what is the function of epiglottis in human?
Alveoli are small thin balloon like structure present in the lungs. The alveolar walls consists of extensive network of blood vessels. There are millions of alveoli in the lungs, which gives the lungs a large surface area for diffusion. This large surface area makes the gaseous exchange more efficient.
Epiglottis is a flap of cartilage situated at the base of the tongue that covers the opening to the air passage when swallowing. It prevents the food or liquids from entering the windpipe trachea.