Composition of Alveolar Air

Alveolar air is the air in the human lungs located in the alveoli. This air has a special composition that differs from atmospheric air. In this article we will look at the composition of alveolar air and its importance for the body.

With each inhalation and exhalation, the lungs are not completely emptied and filled with air, so the composition of alveolar air differs from the composition of atmospheric air. Table 8 shows the differences in the composition of atmospheric and alveolar air.

Table 8. Composition of atmospheric and alveolar air.

As can be seen from the table, alveolar air contains less oxygen and more carbon dioxide than atmospheric air. This is because the exhaled air typically contains less than one-quarter oxygen, so that with each subsequent breath, air rich in carbon dioxide and poor in oxygen enters the lungs.

Despite the fact that alveolar air contains less oxygen than atmospheric air, it is enough to ensure the vital functions of the body. The oxygen that enters the lungs with each breath enters the blood and is transported throughout the body, providing cells with oxygen to perform their functions.

It is also worth noting that a sample of almost pure alveolar air can be obtained by collecting air at the end of maximal expiration. This air contains more carbon dioxide than the air exhaled during normal exhalation.

It is important to understand that in a poorly ventilated room it is “stuffy” not because there is little oxygen or a lot of carbon dioxide in the air, but because of the increased amount of water vapor and high air temperature. Therefore, regular ventilation of premises is important to maintain optimal composition of breathing air.

In conclusion, we can say that the composition of alveolar air differs from the composition of atmospheric air and contains less oxygen and more carbon dioxide. Despite this, the body receives a sufficient amount of oxygen for life. Proper ventilation of rooms also plays an important role in maintaining optimal composition of breathing air. Be attentive to the air you breathe and monitor its quality to maintain the health of your lungs and your entire body.