Gas Velocity

This equation computes the velocity of respiratory gases based on flow rate, F, and cross-sectional area of the respiratory pathway. This flow rate assumes non-turbulent flow which could slightly affect overall velocity.

Inputs to this equation:

• F = flow, the volumetric flow of the gas
• A - cross-sectional area of the flow path

The velocity varies inversely with the cross-sectional area and thus as the total cross-sectional area increases, the velocity decreases.