what is pressure gradient.? how is it helpful in exchanging of gases? also name the organs which are associated in its formation?
Gradient means rate of change of physical quantity with respect to distance.
Pressure gradient is the slope or the difference in pressure conditions at two places, movement takes place from a place of high pressure to low pressure.
When ever pressure gradient is created in between lungs and atmosphere or blood and tissues, respective respiratory gases move from high pressure potential to low pressure potential. Thus, facilitate the exchange of gases during the process of respiration. For example, partial pressure of O2 in atmosphere is 159 mmHg and that in lungs is 104 mmHg. Thus, pressure difference exists in lungs and atmosphere, so O2 moves from atmosphere into lungs.
The organs involved in the creation of pressure gradients during breathing and respiration process are lungs, chest cavity, diaphragm and tissues.
Pressure gradient is the slope or the difference in pressure conditions at two places, movement takes place from a place of high pressure to low pressure.
When ever pressure gradient is created in between lungs and atmosphere or blood and tissues, respective respiratory gases move from high pressure potential to low pressure potential. Thus, facilitate the exchange of gases during the process of respiration. For example, partial pressure of O2 in atmosphere is 159 mmHg and that in lungs is 104 mmHg. Thus, pressure difference exists in lungs and atmosphere, so O2 moves from atmosphere into lungs.
The organs involved in the creation of pressure gradients during breathing and respiration process are lungs, chest cavity, diaphragm and tissues.