Respiratory System Exam Questions Related

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Which of these does not affect diffusion rate?

  • A. Surface area for diffusion
  • B. Concentration gradient
  • C. Solubility of gas
  • D. Molecular weight of gas
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Molecular weight of gas. Diffusion rate is inversely proportional to the square root of the molecular weight of the gas. This means that as the molecular weight increases, the diffusion rate decreases. This is because heavier molecules move more slowly and have a harder time diffusing through a medium. Surface area for diffusion, concentration gradient, and solubility of gas all directly affect diffusion rate. Increasing the surface area for diffusion allows for more space for molecules to diffuse, a steeper concentration gradient increases the rate of diffusion, and higher solubility of gas in a medium enhances the diffusion rate.