What is the function of the alveoli in the respiratory system?

The Respiratory System. Our bodies need oxygen in order to live. We get our oxygen from the air we breathe. However, in order for our bodies to use this oxygen, it must get from our lungs into our bloodstream. This will eventually happen in the alveoli; but we will discuss that a little later. read more

Alveoli are integral parts of our respiratory system. They are the tiny sacs at the very end of the last bronchioles of the bronchial tree. Alveoli are covered with capillaries, and a respiratory membrane is created where alveoli and capillaries meet. read more

Part of the respiratory system, these tiny alveoli have a key role in the movement of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Role in the respiratory system. The final branches of the respiratory tree, alveoli are where oxygen from the air enters your blood, and carbon dioxide from your body is expelled back into the air. read more

The alveoli have an elastic-like structure, which means that there is an amount of effort needed to inhale oxygen into the lungs, but that same structure assists with exhaling. The process of breathing is also made easier by a liquid that coats the alveoli and reduces the surface tension on the structures. read more