Final answer:
Masks deliver higher concentrations of O2 than nasal cannulae because they can provide oxygen at higher flow rates and contribute to a more controlled oxygen environment, facilitating a more efficient transfer of oxygen to the blood.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks whether masks deliver higher or lower concentrations of O2 than nasal cannulae. The answer is a) Higher. Masks can provide a higher concentration of oxygen compared to nasal cannulae. This is because masks can deliver oxygen at higher flow rates and provide a more controlled oxygen environment. In medical settings, oxygen therapy via a mask is often used for patients who require a significant increase in oxygen delivery. For example, breathing masks can deliver a higher concentration of oxygen to help increase the rate at which oxygen binds with the hemoglobin, as represented by the chemical reaction: Hb(aq) + O₂(g) → HbO₂(aq).
It's important to understand that the partial pressure of oxygen plays a crucial role in the delivery of oxygen to the tissues, and a higher partial pressure achieved through a mask can facilitate more efficient oxygen transfer. Additionally, in certain patients, the oxygen concentrations and the method of delivery may vary based on their specific condition.