Question

What factors affect the rate of diffusion in the Lungs?

Answer 1

Diffusion in lungs:

This involves the gaseous exchange occurs whereby oxygen diffuses into the alveoli of the lungs and carbon dioxide diffuses into the bloodstream from the alveoli.

There are several factors that affect the rate of diffusion in the lungs:–

1. The thickness of the membrane: The rate of diffusion is faster as the membrane gets thinner.
2. The surface area of membrane: The rate of diffusion is faster when the surface area is larger.
3. Diffusion coefficient of the gas: This determines the expanse over which the gas can diffuse.
4. The pressure difference across the membrane: This determines the speed and rate at which the gas diffuses.