Nitrous oxide oxidation steady-state

Figure 9. Relationship between the amount of adsorbed nitrous oxide and the rate of decomposition at steady state on MgO at 409°C.

Fig. 5. Steady-state concentration of oxygen in different oxides during ammonia oxidation to nitrous oxide (ref. 36).

The system of equations obtained from the stage steady-state conditions can be solved without simplifications (it is reduced to a quadratic equation). However, a simple approximate solution is sufficient, based on the rate of nitrous oxide formation, r(3), being much less than the sum (r(1) + r<2)) of the rates along the routes iV and jV<2). 

Uptake curves for inhaled anesthetics Figure 11.6 illustrates the uptake curves for four inhalation anesthetics. The solubility in blood, as well as tissues, is in the following order halothane > enflurane > isoflurane > nitrous oxide. Because of its low solubility, the partial pressure of nitrous oxide in the inspired mixture and the body most rapidly achieves a steady-state. 

Washout When the administration of an inhalation anesthetic is discontinued, the body now becomes the source that drives the anesthetic into the alveolar space. The same factors that influence attainment of steady-state with an inspired anesthetic determine the time course of clearance of the drug from the body. Thus, nitrous oxide exits the body faster than halothane. 

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