8.7.2a Respiratory Structure and Breathing Mechanisms in Humans and Animals (Structured Question 1)


Question 1:
Figure I represents a model of the human lungs in the respiratory mechanism.


(a)
Based on the model of the lungs in Figure I, what are the equivalent structures to the glass tube and the bell jar in the human respiratory system?
Glass tube: __________
Bell jar: ____________
(2 marks)

(b)(i)
The thin rubber sheet represents the diaphragm in the human respiratory system.
What is the function of the thin rubber sheet in the model of the lungs? (1 mark)

(ii)
The balloons represent the human lungs.
Explain one characteristic of the balloons which is similar to the human lungs. (2 marks)


(c)(i)
The string in the model of the lungs is pulled down.
Draw the changes to the thin rubber sheet and the balloons in Figure II below. (1 mark)


(ii)
Observe your drawing in (c)(i).
Explain the relationship between the changes in the model of the lungs you have drawn and the real human respiratory system. (3 marks)


(d)(i)
The percentage of oxygen and carbon dioxide gases in inspired and expired air is determined by using the J-tube.
Why is the end of the J-tube dipped in potassium hydroxide solution and then followed by potassium pyrogallol solution? (1 mark)

(ii)
Table below shows the result of a study on the content of inspired and expired air.


Explain why there is an increase in percentage of carbon dioxide in the expired air. (2 marks)


Answer:
(a)
Glass tube: Bronchi/ trachea
Bell jar: Rib cage/ ribs

(b)(i)
To control the volume/ pressure of the air in the bell jar

(b)(ii)
Balloons are elastic and can expand and contract

(c)(i)


(c)(ii)
The diaphragm muscles contract causing the volume of the thoracic cavity to increase. This causes the pressure in the lungs to decrease. Air from the outside is forced in.

(d)(i)
Potassium hydroxide solution absorbs carbon dioxide only whereas potassium pyrogallol solution absorbs both oxygen and carbon dioxide.

(d)(ii)
Carbon dioxide is the product of cellular respiration in the body. Carbon dioxide diffuses out of the cells to be transported to the lungs.


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