Fick’s Law: Oxygen Diffusion Across the Alveoli

Manipulate membrane thickness and surface area to see effects on oxygen transfer.

Diffusion ∝ Surface Area × Pressure Gradient / Thickness

Interact

Membrane thickness / fluid barrier: 30% Alveolar surface area: 80% Clinical scenario

Clinical link

Fibrosis and pulmonary oedema increase diffusion distance. Emphysema reduces alveolar surface area. Both can reduce oxygen transfer and contribute to hypoxaemia.

Checkpoint

Why can both emphysema and fibrosis reduce oxygen transfer?