Generalized equations for rectified diffusion

Abstract

There are at least 4 different equations present in the literature for the threshold for growth of gas bubbles [e.g. growth of microtubules in biological media and following tissue sonication] by rectified diffusion. These various equations have limited regions of applicability and also give significantly different predictions in common regions of applicability. A set of general equations are obtained for the growth rate and the threshold for rectified diffusion that apply over a wider range of interest. Under certain restrictions the previous equations agree with the more general ones given here. Finally, graphical representations of the equations are given showing the degree of approximation and the range applicability of the specialized equations.