Respiratory adaptations · Physiology

Which respiratory adaptation improves oxygen diffusion at high altitude?

  1. Progressive thickening of the alveolar membrane
  2. Increased alveolar-capillary surface area
  3. Chronically reduced pulmonary blood flow
  4. A persistently decreased ventilation-perfusion ratio
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Correct answer: Increased alveolar-capillary surface area

Chronic exposure increases capillary density and effective surface area. This enhances oxygen diffusion across the alveoli.

Difficulty: Medium Question 4 of 20

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