The surface area of human lung is made larger by alveoli and is approximately the size of a

Options

A. Dinner plate
B. Table
C. Four-person tent
D. Tennis court

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Role of Alveoli:**
- Alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs that play a crucial role in the process of gaseous exchange. They are responsible for the transfer of oxygen from the air into the bloodstream and the removal of carbon dioxide from the blood.

2. **Significance of Surface Area:**
- The surface area of the lungs is significantly increased by the presence of alveoli. A larger surface area allows for more efficient gas exchange. If the surface area is small, the rate of diffusion of gases would be low, which would hinder the body's ability to obtain sufficient oxygen.

3. **Characteristics of Alveoli:**
- Alveoli have thin walls and an irregular shape, which maximizes their surface area. Despite the lungs fitting into a relatively small space in the thoracic cavity, the total surface area available for gas exchange is quite large.

4. **Estimating the Surface Area:**
- The total surface area of the alveoli in human lungs is estimated to be around 100 m². This is a significant area when considering the efficiency of gas exchange.

5. **Comparing with Given Options:**
- When comparing the surface area of the alveoli to common objects, the options include a dinner plate, a table, a tent, and a tennis court.
- A tennis court has a surface area of approximately 200 m², which is the closest comparison to the alveolar surface area, even though it is not an exact match.

6. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, from the given options, the most appropriate answer to the question regarding the surface area of human lungs made larger by alveoli is **option D: a tennis court**.

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