Question

Lung alveoli of mammals have a thin wall composed of (a) Simple cuboidal epithelium (b) Simple squamous epithelium (c) Stratified cuboidal epithelium (d) Stratified squamous epithelium

Short answer

The lung alveoli of mammals have a thin wall composed of simple squamous epithelium.

Step-by-step solution

Recall Cell Type Information

In biology, there are different cell morphologies for different functions. The terms 'simple' or 'stratified' refer to whether the cells are in single or multiple layers, respectively. 'Cuboidal' and 'squamous' describe the shape of the cell. Cuboidal cells are cube-shaped while squamous cells are flat. Cuboidal cells are mostly found in glandular tissues and squamous cells where rapid diffusion is required.

Understand Function of Lung Alveoli

This step involves knowing the function of the mammalian lung alveoli. The lung alveoli are the site of gas exchange in mammals.

Determine Appropriate Cell Type

Given the function of the lung alveoli (rapid exchange of gases), the most appropriate cell type that would allow for this are 'simple squamous epithelium'. This is due to the thin, single-layered structure of the simple squamous epithelium which allows for the efficient exchange of gases.

Key concepts

Simple Squamous Epithelium

The simple squamous epithelium is a type of epithelial tissue characterized by its single-layered and flat structure. These cells are particularly thin, which makes them perfect for processes that require rapid diffusion and transport. This epithelium is found in places where quick exchange is necessary, such as the lung alveoli, where oxygen and carbon dioxide must quickly enter and exit the bloodstream.

The simplicity of this structure allows gases to diffuse with minimal barriers, ensuring efficient gas exchange. These cells are not involved in secretion or absorption in major amounts because their design is optimized for facilitating quick passage. Their lack of thickness means less resistance, which speedily allows substances to cross over their surfaces.

• Single-layered, reducing diffusion distance
• Flat structure facilitates easy passage of substances
• Ideal for locations demanding rapid diffusion, like lung alveoli

Gas Exchange

Gas exchange is a crucial physiological process occurring in the lung alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs. In mammals, this process involves oxygen from inhaled air being transferred into the blood and carbon dioxide from the blood being exhaled out into the air.

This efficient exchange of gases is essential for the cells throughout our body to receive enough oxygen for cellular respiration and for removing carbon dioxide, a waste product. The structure of the lung alveoli, lined with simple squamous epithelium, supports this gas exchange.

• Oxygen enters the blood during inhalation
• Carbon dioxide is expelled during exhalation
• Simple squamous epithelium aids rapid gas exchange

Inhale, exhale - these are the simple acts that continuously facilitate the vital exchange of gases, fueled by the body’s need for oxygen and release of carbon dioxide.

Cell Morphology

Cell morphology refers to the shape and structure of a cell. In biology, understanding cell morphology is essential because the shape of a cell often reflects its function. In the context of the lungs, the morphology of epithelial cells can be cuboidal or squamous, each suited for different functions.

The lung alveoli predominantly feature squamous cells due to their thin, flat shape. This allows these cells to cover large surface areas and participate in rapid gas exchange efficiently. In contrast, cuboidal cells, being taller and boxier, often line glands and are involved in secretion or absorption rather than diffusion.

• Squamous cells: thin and flat, great for diffusion
• Cuboidal cells: cube-shaped, more suitable for secretion tasks
• Cell shape and structure align with their specific roles within organisms

Understanding these differences in cell morphology helps explain why certain cells are located in specific places within the body and how they contribute to the body's overall function.