Why is diffusion insufficient to meet the oxygen requirement of multicellular organisms like us?
Why is diffusion insufficient to meet the oxygen requirement of multicellular organisms like us?
Every living cell requires oxygen for performing cellular respiration. In unicellular organisms (e.g., Amoeba), the single cell is in direct contact with environment. Oxygen passes into it through diffusion. In simple multicellular organisms (e.g., Hydra), every cell may also get oxygen through diffusion from environment. This is not possible in complex multicellular organisms like humans. The body is covered by dead cells. The living cells are not in contact with external environment. Air containing intercellular spaces are absent. Therefore, quick diffusion cannot occur. Cell to cell diffusion is a very slow process. Passage of oxygen from lungs to toes through cell to cell diffusion will take about three years. Therefore, diffusion cannot meet the oxygen requirement of multicellular organisms like humans.
-
Why is transport of materials necessary in an organism (plant or animal)? (b) What is the need for special tissues or organs for transport of substances in plants and animals?
3 years ago
-
(a) What is meant by dialysis? What type of patients are put on dialysis? (b) Explain the principle of dialysis with the help of a labelled diagram.
3 years ago
-
Describe the mechanism of urine formation in human excretory system. Draw a labelled diagram to illustrate your answer. (b) Where is urine carried through ureters? (c) What is urethra?
3 years ago
-
Name the various organs of the human excretory system. (b) Draw a neat labelled diagram of the human excretory system. (c) What is the function of excretory system in humans?
3 years ago
-
What is lymphatic system? What are its functions ? (b) What is blood pressure? What are the two factors used to express the blood pressure of a person?
3 years ago
- 321 Forums
- 27.3 K Topics
- 53.8 K Posts
- 1 Online
- 12.4 K Members