Verified Solution Biology Breathing and Exchange of Gases

Which of the following factors would decrease the rate of diffusion of gases across the alveolar-capillary membrane?

7 views 2 helpful Updated Jul 20, 2026
Solution ✔ Verified
  • AIncreased thickness of the respiratory membrane.
  • BIncreased partial pressure gradient.
  • CIncreased surface area of the membrane.
  • DIncreased solubility of the gas.
Explanation

The rate of diffusion is inversely proportional to the thickness of the membrane. An increased thickness would increase the diffusion distance, thereby decreasing the rate of diffusion.

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