Question

What is the effect of an increase or decrease in each variable in Fick’s law of diffusion on nutrient and water absorption in the small intestine? Option 1: Increases absorption Option 2: Decreases absorption Option 3: No effect on absorption Option 4: Depends on other factors

Answer 1

In Fick's law of diffusion, an increase in the small intestine's surface area or concentration difference increases absorption. However, an increase in diffusion distance reduces absorption. Thus, the effect of each variable on nutrient and water absorption depends on the variable.

Step-by-step explanation:

Fick's law of diffusion states that the rate of diffusion is proportional to the surface area and the difference in concentration, and inversely proportional to the diffusion distance. In the context of nutrient and water absorption in the small intestine, these variables can have varied effects.

If the surface area of the small intestine increases, it would increase absorption (Option 1). Similarly, if the difference in concentration increases, absorption also increases (Option 1). However, if the diffusion distance increases, say, due to a thicker intestinal wall, absorption decreases (Option 2). Therefore, the effect of a variable in Fick’s law of diffusion on nutrient and water absorption in the small intestine does depend on whether the variable is the surface area, the difference in concentration, or the diffusion distance (Option 4).

Learn more about Fick's law of diffusion