How do dense body tissues saturate compared to less dense tissues?

Dense body tissues, such as bone and muscle, have a greater ability to absorb and retain gases compared to less dense tissues like fat and water. This is primarily due to their higher molecular density and the structural characteristics of the tissues. When subjected to pressure, denser tissues will saturate with gases—especially in diving situations—at a slower rate because the higher density implies that the gas molecules have less space to move within the tissue matrix.

Additionally, the physiological makeup of denser tissues can influence how quickly they absorb gases under pressure, often leading to a delayed saturation process. Conversely, less dense tissues typically saturate more rapidly due to their structure, which allows for quicker diffusion of gases.

This difference in saturation rates is crucial for understanding decompression sickness, as it affects how quickly divers need to off-gas during ascent to avoid complications related to gas bubbling in the body. This knowledge is essential in training for safe diving practices and in understanding the physiological responses to pressure changes.