The steepness of the concentration gradient across the respiratory membrane affects gas exchange, with a steeper gradient ____.
A)decreasing the rate of gas exchange
B)increasing the rate of gas exchange
C)decreasing the levels of carbon dioxide in the blood
D)increasing the levels of hemoglobin-bound oxygen
E)increasing the number of red blood cells

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A steeper concentration gradient means there is a larger difference in the concentration of gases on either side of the respiratory membrane. This larger difference means that gases will diffuse more quickly from high concentration areas to low concentration areas, leading to an increase in the rate of gas exchange.

The Steepness of the Concentration Gradient Across the Respiratory Membrane