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Whose discovery first described the structure of alveoli in the lungs?

Human bodyRespiratory system

Quick Answer

Marcello Malpighi described the lung's tiny air sacs in the 17th century. These alveoli are where oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange takes place.

The Full Story

Marcello Malpighi used the microscope to study lung tissue and described the tiny air sacs that are now known as alveoli. His work helped explain how the lungs could support gas exchange, even though the chemistry of respiration was understood much later. Alveoli provide a vast surface area for oxygen to enter the blood and carbon dioxide to leave it. This discovery remains one of the foundations of respiratory anatomy.

Key Facts

1.Malpighi's work dates to the 1600s
2.Alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs
3.Gas exchange happens across the alveolar surface

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