Briefly explain how each of the following might interfere with gas exchange:?

a) Iron deficiency can cause a decrease in the number of red blood cells.

Fe loss reduces the amount of hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is vital in carrying oxygen to peripheral tissue. Anemia caused by hemoglobin deficiency reduces oxygen availability, which also diminishes respiration, thereby lowering metabolic energy.

b)cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease in which the surfaces of the alveoli become coated with thick, sticky mucus.

If the alveoli are coated with mucus, they are less able to absorb atmospheric oxygen, and to emit excess carbon dioxide, As a result, there is less oxygen available for metabolism, and there is a likelihood of respiratory acidosis, caused by excess blood CO2.

c) Carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke takes the place of oxygen in the hemoglobin molecules.

Hemoglobin, myoglobin, and mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase are all compromised by carbon monoxide, which binds to these molecules, forming carboxy-hemoglobin and competing with and displacing oxygen. Consequently, carbon dioxide poisoning can occur, in which CO toxicity harms the central nervous system and heart. Carbon dioxide poisoning kills about 2500 Americans yearly, 500 accidentally, and 2000 through suicide.