Net Diffusion Research Paper

The process of oxygen and carbon dioxide moving in opposite directions across respiratory membranes is referred to as gas exchange. To extract energy from the sugars and acids in our body, oxygen is needed. During the process of extracting energy carbon dioxide is produced and the body must rid its self of this toxin. Movement of the cellular molecules in the human body in a manner that is not directional is called diffusion. Net diffusion occurs when there is a directed movement and differences in concentration of the molecules. As the body inhales, oxygen from our environment is taken into the body. As oxygen approaches the respiratory membranes in the lungs, the concentration is higher on the outside of the membranes than on the inside and causes the oxygen to move inward. The carbon dioxide concentration moves opposite of the oxygen thereby pushing it out of the lungs when the body exhales. The process of taking in oxygen from the air, it being transferred to the bloodstream and the carbon dioxide transferring to the air is called external respiration, or better known as breathing. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, emphysema, silicosis, asbestosis, mesothelioma, beryllium disease, byssinosis, bronchiolitis obliterans, silo filler’s disease and coal worker’s …show more content…
To date the battle continues and many of the lung diseases known have no cure. The inability of the body’s lungs to take in oxygen is debilitating to those who suffer from it. Poor lung function effects other areas of the body as well. When the lungs aren’t functioning correctly it stresses the heart requiring it to work harder. This can lead to high blood pressure, stroke and heart failure. Low oxygen intake can cause circulatory problems, body weakness, poor digestion, swelling, chronic hostility, fatigue, dizziness and sleep apnea. It literally sets off a domino effect in the