Oxygen Consumption Calculator
Calculate respiratory quotient (RQ) and analyze oxygen consumption rates
Understanding Oxygen Consumption
Oxygen consumption and respiratory quotient (RQ) are key indicators of metabolic activity and substrate utilization. Our calculator helps analyze oxygen consumption rates, calculate RQ values, and understand metabolic patterns.
Oxygen Consumption Calculator
Calculate RQ and analyze metabolic substrates
Understanding Oxygen Consumption
Respiratory Quotient
Understanding RQ and metabolism
- CO₂/O₂ ratio
- Substrate indicators
- Normal ranges
- Metabolic implications
Substrate Utilization
How RQ indicates fuel use
- Carbohydrate metabolism
- Fat oxidation
- Protein breakdown
- Mixed fuel use
Environmental Factors
External effects on consumption
- Temperature effects
- Pressure changes
- Humidity impact
- Activity influence
Frequently Asked Questions
What is respiratory quotient (RQ)?
Respiratory quotient (RQ) is the ratio of carbon dioxide produced to oxygen consumed during metabolism. It indicates which energy substrates (carbohydrates, fats, or proteins) are being metabolized.
How do RQ values indicate substrate use?
Different RQ values indicate different substrate utilization: 1.0 for pure carbohydrate metabolism, 0.7 for pure fat metabolism, and around 0.8 for protein metabolism. Mixed substrate use gives intermediate values.
What affects oxygen consumption?
Oxygen consumption is affected by physical activity, body size, temperature, metabolic rate, and the type of substrate being metabolized. Environmental factors like altitude can also influence consumption rates.
Why measure CO₂ production?
CO₂ production measurement, along with O₂ consumption, helps determine RQ and understand which energy sources are being used. It's essential for calculating energy expenditure and metabolic rate.
How is metabolic rate calculated?
Metabolic rate is calculated from oxygen consumption using conversion factors. Each liter of oxygen consumed represents approximately 4.82 kcal of energy expenditure, varying slightly with the substrate being metabolized.
Important Notes
- RQ varies by metabolic substrate
- Carbohydrates RQ ≈ 1.0
- Proteins RQ ≈ 0.8
- Fats RQ ≈ 0.7
- Temperature affects consumption
- Activity level impacts rates