Alveolar sac

Definition

An alveolar sac is a cluster of alveoli in the lungs where gas exchange occurs between the air and the blood. It represents the end point of the respiratory tree and plays a critical role in oxygenating blood and removing carbon dioxide.

Related terms

Alveoli:

Tiny air sacs within the lungs that allow for rapid gas exchange between the air and blood.

Bronchioles:

Small passages in the lungs that lead air to and from the alveolar sacs.

Capillaries:

Microscopic blood vessels that envelop alveoli, facilitating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between air and blood