Question

Which of the following factors affect the rate of diffusion?
a. Pressure gradient
b. Concentration gradient
c. Solubility of gases
d. Reactivity of gases
e. Thickness of the membranes involved in diffusion

• A. a, b and c
• B. a, c, d and e
• C. a, b, c and e
• D. a, b, c, d and e

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

• Alveoli are the primary sites of exchange of gases. Alveoli provide great surface area of gaseous exchange. Exchange of gases also occur between blood and tissues.
• $O_2$ and $C{O}_2$ are exchanged in these sites by simple diffusion mainly based on pressure/concentration gradient.
• Solubility of the gases as well as the thickness of the membranes involved in diffusion are also some important factors that can affect the rate of diffusion