Question #8ba8b
3 Answers
The human body uses air in several ways. Without it we wouldn't be able to live.
Breathing in Oxygen - Air supplies the oxygen to our lungs which circulates through our bodies to combine with sugars in the food we eat to give us energy and to build tissues.
Exhaling Waste - Oxygen is primarily combined with carbon in our bodies to produce Carbon Dioxide which is exhaled. Other trace gases are exhaled including a little methane and water vapor. The water vapor is not really a waste product like CO2 or methane.
Regulating Temperature - The air around us helps to keep us warm. In the absence of any heat in the air, our bodies lose heat quickly. If we are working hard or exercising we generate excess heat. The air provides some cooling to help the body maintain an ideal temperature of 37º C.
Transmitting sound - Our sense of hearing relies on sound energy being transmitted through the air. Without air, no sound would reach our ears.
Transmitting light - Ok, it is true that light would still travel without any air. If all of the air was suddenly removed from the room you would still be able to see for the few last brief moments of your life. But consider that the air might be replaced with something else that is breathable but not transparent. If the air were not transparent, you'd have trouble using your eyes.
For aerobic reactions
Explanation:
We need only oxygen since we are aerobic creatures. Oxygen is used to run reactions taking place in our bodies (such as fluid transport, digestion reactions, etc.). With the help of oxygen, we live.
Otherwise, we will be dead (sooner or later).
By the way, nitrogen gas (in air) is not used in our bodies although when we inhale we take nitrogen gas along with oxygen gas.
For aerobic bodily functions and furthermore, for mechanical and human engineered machines.
Explanation:
Examples:
- Oxygen to brain
- Air resistance
- Recognition of sound
- Exhaling wastes (coughing)
- etc.
Air is IMPORTANT!
