Describe4 marksStandard
A scientist examines a section of lung tissue under an electron microscope. The image shows the alveolar wall consisting of a very thin layer of squamous epithelial cells, surrounded by a dense network of capillaries whose endothelium is also extremely thin. The distance between the alveolar air space and the blood in the capillaries is less than 1 μm. Many adjacent alveoli are present.
Describe how the structure of the alveolar wall is adapted for efficient gas exchange between the alveolar air and the blood in the capillaries.