What is the Fick equation for cardiac output (QT)?

The Fick equation for cardiac output is represented as QT = VO2 / C(a-v)O2(10), where QT stands for cardiac output, VO2 is the oxygen consumption, and C(a-v)O2 represents the arteriovenous oxygen content difference. This formula illustrates that cardiac output can be determined by dividing the amount of oxygen consumed by the difference in oxygen content between arterial and venous blood, multiplied by 10 to adjust units appropriately for calculation.

This relationship highlights the fundamental principle that cardiac output increases when oxygen consumption rises or when the arteriovenous oxygen content difference becomes larger, indicating more efficient oxygen extraction by tissues.

In this case, the correct formulation utilizes division to relate these variables effectively, reflecting the physiological balance between oxygen supply and demand.