Respiratory diffusion

Definition

Respiratory diffusion is the process where gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide move across the alveolar-capillary membrane in the lungs. This movement is driven by concentration gradients, enabling gas exchange essential for respiration.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oxygen diffuses from alveoli into pulmonary capillaries due to a higher oxygen concentration in alveoli.
2. Carbon dioxide diffuses from pulmonary capillaries into alveoli as its concentration is higher in the blood returning to the lungs.
3. Efficient respiratory diffusion is crucial for maintaining proper blood oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal.
4. Nutrition can influence respiratory diffusion efficiency, particularly through maintaining healthy lung tissue and fluid balance.
5. Conditions like pulmonary edema or malnutrition can impair respiratory diffusion, leading to decreased gas exchange efficiency.

Review Questions

• What drives the movement of gases during respiratory diffusion?
• How does nutrition impact the efficiency of respiratory diffusion?
• Why is efficient respiratory diffusion important for overall health?

Related terms

Alveolar-Capillary Membrane: The thin barrier through which gases are exchanged between alveoli and blood in pulmonary capillaries.

Pulmonary Edema: A condition characterized by excess fluid in the lungs that can impair gas exchange.

Gas Exchange: The process of exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide between the bloodstream and lungs.