title: Variations on a theme: splitting ratio.
abstract: An expression for the splitting ratio (bypass gas/gas through vaporizing compartment) is derived formally. The factors affecting volatile agent gaseous fraction and, more importantly, partial pressure are discussed in relation to changes in temperature and barometric pressure. Low-boiling point, high saturated vapour pressure anaesthetics are more susceptible to the influence of barometric pressure variations.
mesh_terms: D000769:Anesthesia, Inhalation / Q000295:instrumentation*; D000777:Anesthetics; D001274:Atmospheric Pressure; D005740:Gases; D010313:Partial Pressure; D013696:Temperature; D014835:Volatilization
chemical_list: D000777:Anesthetics; D005740:Gases