Final answer:
Tar from cigarette smoke paralyzes and destroys the cilia and alveoli in the lungs, as well as other lung tissues, leading to respiratory diseases and chronic conditions due to the inability of these tissues to regenerate effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tar, which is a component of cigarette smoke, has a destructive effect on various tissues within the human body. It has the capability to paralyze and destroy the cilia in the respiratory tract, the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs, and other surrounding lung tissue. The cilia are small hair-like structures that help to clear mucus and dirt out of the lungs. When they are paralyzed and destroyed by tar, mucus and foreign particles can build up, leading to respiratory diseases. The alveoli are vital for gas exchange, and damage to them impairs the lungs' ability to oxygenate blood. Additionally, destruction of lung tissue compromises the structural integrity of the lungs, leading to conditions such as emphysema.
It is also important to note that, similar to nerve tissues, lung tissue damaged by substances like tar does not readily regenerate, meaning that damage can be long-lasting and sometimes permanent, leading to chronic respiratory issues.