Question

How do alveoli increase surface area in the lungs?

Answer 1

The primary lung function is the exchange of gases. The alveoli allow the occurrence of this gas exchange. The oxygen diffusion rate depends on the surface area, but with greater surface areas, gas exchange happens more rapidly.

Complete answer:
The moisture layer in the alveoli allows gases to dissolve so that they can easily diffuse. The alveoli, supported by the thick network of capillaries covering them, have a very wide overall surface area and a very strong blood supply. Broad surface area - there are several alveoli in the lungs with a form that raises the surface area more. A wide diffusion gradient means that the concentration of oxygen in the alveoli is greater than in the capillaries, meaning that oxygen is transported from the alveoli to the blood.

Tiny alveoli structures all together form a very large surface area to do the job of breathing, both when you are at rest and when you are exercising. A region over 1,076.4 square feet long, the alveoli occupy an area (100 square meters).
This large surface area is important for filtering the vast amounts of air used in breathing and carrying oxygen to the lungs. The lungs suck in around 1.3 to 2.1 gallons (5 to 8 litres) of air per minute. The alveoli supply the blood with 10.1 ounces (0.3 litres) of oxygen per minute while you are at rest.

Note: When you exhale, the alveoli contract, forcing carbon dioxide out of the lungs. As emphysema advances, alveoli and lung tissue are damaged. For this damage, the alveoli are not able to support the bronchial tubes. The tubes compress and create an "obstruction" that traps oxygen within the lungs (a blockage).