The Diffusion of Pulmonary Gases

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to the diffusion of pulmonary gases, essential for understanding respiratory physiology.

Ventilation

The process of moving air in and out of the lungs.

Oxygenation

The movement of oxygen from alveoli to the capillaries.

Perfusion

The passage of blood through the pulmonary capillaries to the alveoli.

Dalton's Law

The total pressure exerted by a mixture of gases is equal to the sum of the partial pressures of each individual gas.

Partial Pressure

The pressure exerted by a particular gas in a mixture, proportional to its percentage in the mixture.

Gas Diffusion

The movement of gas molecules from an area of high pressure to an area of low pressure.

Erythrocyte

A red blood cell that carries oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Fick's Law

States that the amount of gas that diffuses is determined by surface area, diffusion constant, partial pressure difference, and membrane thickness.

Hypoventilation

Decreased rate of breathing resulting in increased carbon dioxide in the blood.

Alveolar-Capillary Membrane

The barrier through which gases must diffuse to enter the blood from the alveoli.

Perfusion-Limited Gas Transfer

Gas transfer limited by blood flow to the alveoli, primarily during healthy conditions.

Diffusion-Limited Gas Transfer

Gas transfer limited by the integrity of the ac-membrane, affecting diseases like fibrosis and emphysema.