Transients in Carbon Dioxide Stores

Physiologically correct models of the respiratory control system require accurate knowledge of the structure and dynamics of carbon dioxide stores of the body. Several models of these stores have been investigated and the computed results compared to experiment. The effect on these models of alterations in cardiac output, regional perfusion, and tissue absorptive capacity for carbon dioxide has been examined. Experimental results are best duplicated by a five venous compartment model of carbon dioxide stores with a low absorptive capacity for carbon dioxide during the first few minutes following a change in ventilation.