We have studied the relationship between gas exchange and mechanical frequency response during high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) at 0.5-5.0 Hz in anaesthetized pigs. The mechanical gain curve showed a minimal "anti-resonant" response at 0.8 Hz (f1) and a maximal "resonant" response at 5.0 Hz (f2). This finding may be explained by modelling the thorax and abdomen as a system of coupled masses and compliances which undergo two different modes of forced oscillation in the frequency range studied. Gas exchange was optimal in the frequency range between the minimal and maximal responses. The tidal volumes produced were greater than anatomical deadspace, suggesting that gas transport was mainly convective in this range.