Airflow & Obstruction

Question 1

Airflow formula

Answer 1

• Q=dP/R

Question 2

Resistance:

Answer 2

• primarily property of conducting airways
• radius is the main determinant of resistance

Question 3

Resistance Formula:

Answer 3

• R=8nL/3.14r^4
• radius
  
  • main determinant of resistance
  • same throughout a generation
  • radius increases, resistance decreases
• Viscosity (n)
• Length
  
  • doesn’t change in adults

Question 4

Extrathoracic airways

Answer 4

• surrounded by tissue
• 50% of system resistance
• all air through one tube=high velocity of airflow and turbulence