A Level Biology Practice Exam

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What is the function of a gaseous exchange system?

To produce energy from food
To facilitate cellular reproduction
To exchange respiratory gases
To transport nutrients throughout the body

The correct answer is: To exchange respiratory gases

The function of a gaseous exchange system is primarily to exchange respiratory gases, specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide, between the environment and the organism. In animals, this system allows for the intake of oxygen, which is crucial for cellular respiration—a process that generates energy from food. Simultaneously, it facilitates the removal of carbon dioxide, a waste product of metabolism. This gas exchange typically occurs in specialized structures such as lungs in mammals or gills in fish, which are adapted to maximize surface area and efficiency. The need for such a system arises from the fact that most cells require a continuous supply of oxygen to perform aerobic respiration. Thus, the gaseous exchange system plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis and supporting overall metabolic functions in living organisms.