What would decrease diffusion of a gas across the alveolar/pulmonary capillary membrane?
A) an increase in thickness of the membrane
B) an increase in surface area of the membrane
C) an increase in the partial pressure gradient
D) smaller molecular size

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An increase in thickness of the membrane would decrease diffusion because it creates a longer distance for the gas to travel, slowing down the rate of transfer. The other choices would increase diffusion: an increase in surface area would provide more space for gas exchange, an increase in partial pressure gradient would increase the driving force for diffusion, and smaller molecular size would allow for easier passage through the membrane.

What Would Decrease Diffusion of a Gas Across the Alveolar/pulmonary