Q13.50 P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

Respiratory problems are treated with devices that deliver air with a higher partial pressure of  ${\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$ than normal air. Why?

 

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Respiration problems can be treated by providing oxygen by artificial means. As the partial pressure increases the solubility of the gas increases in the body which increases the oxygen level.

Step 1: Definition

Solubility is defined as how much a solvent can take in solute when dissolved.

 Henry’s Law,

 $\mathbf{Solubility}\mathbf{=}{\mathbf{K}}_{\mathbf{H}}\mathbf{\times }{\mathbf{P}}_{\mathbf{gas}}$

 ${\mathbf{P}}_{\mathbf{gas}}\mathbf{=}\mathbf{Pressure} \mathbf{of} \mathbf{Gas}$

${\mathbf{K}}_{\mathbf{H}}\mathbf{=}\mathbf{Henry}\mathbf{\text{'}}\mathbf{s} \mathbf{Law} \mathbf{Constant}$

Step 2: Effect of Pressure.

Respiration problems are mostly treated by providing artificial oxygen through a cylinder at a certain level of pressure.

The level of partial pressure providing oxygen to the body is high than the actual pressure of inhaling oxygen.

 

Henry’s law says that the solubility is directly proportional to the partial pressure of the gas.

Therefore, as the partial pressure of the oxygen increases, the solubility of the gas increases in the body.