Final Answer:
The primary function of the alveoli is Gas exchange.
a) Gas exchange
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary function of the alveoli is gas exchange. These tiny air sacs, located in the lungs, play a crucial role in the respiratory system by facilitating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and the bloodstream.
Alveoli are surrounded by an extensive network of capillaries, allowing for efficient diffusion of gases. When we breathe in, oxygen enters the alveoli and diffuses across the thin alveolar walls into the bloodstream. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide, a waste product produced by the body, diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be expelled during exhalation.
This process is vital for maintaining proper oxygen levels in the blood, which is essential for cellular functions throughout the body. Without functional alveoli and efficient gas exchange, the respiratory and circulatory systems would be compromised, leading to a range of health issues related to oxygen deprivation and the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the body. Therefore, the primary role of the alveoli is to ensure the exchange of gases necessary for sustaining life.