describe the path taken by carbon dioxide released from the tissues of an insect to the atmosphere

Answer 1

The path taken by carbon dioxide (CO₂) released from the tissues of an insect to the atmosphere involves several physiological processes, primarily through respiration and diffusion. Here’s a detailed description of this pathway:

1. Cellular Metabolism: Within the insect's tissues, cellular respiration occurs in the cells. This process involves the oxidation of organic molecules (like glucose) to produce energy (ATP), and a byproduct of this process is carbon dioxide (CO₂).

2. Diffusion into Hemolymph: After CO₂ is produced in the tissues, it diffuses from the cells into the hemolymph (the insect equivalent of blood). Insects have an open circulatory system, and the hemolymph transports nutrients and waste products, including CO₂.

3. Transport through Hemolymph: The CO₂ dissolved in the hemolymph is carried away from the tissues towards the respiratory system. However, a large portion of CO₂ is not transported in the hemolymph but diffuses directly through the insect's respiratory system.

4. Entry into Tracheal System: Insects breathe through a network of small tubes called tracheae, which are directly connected to the outside environment. Air enters the tracheal system through openings called spiracles, located along the sides of the insect’s body.

5. Diffusion into Tracheae: Once the CO₂ reaches the tracheae through the hemolymph, it diffuses from the tissues into the tracheal air passages. This gas exchange allows CO₂ to move from the areas of higher concentration (inside the body) to lower concentration (the external environment).

6. Exiting the Body: The CO₂ then travels through the tracheal system and exits the insect's body through the spiracles. The spiracles can open and close to regulate gas exchange, minimizing water loss while allowing for the release of CO₂ and the uptake of oxygen (O₂).

7. Release into the Atmosphere: Finally, once the CO₂ exits through the spiracles, it is released into the atmosphere, completing the pathway from its production in the tissues to its exit into the environment.

This process is essential for maintaining the insect's internal gas balance, ensuring that O₂ can be absorbed for respiration and excess CO₂ is expelled.