New experimental data for a range of gas velocities from 0.1 to 1.5 cm/s are explained by an elementary theory that combines the effect of bubble retardation owing to Bjerknes forces with the breakage relationship of Hinze in a pulsed-bubble column. A frequency range from 10 to 30 Hz, and two amplitudes of fluid oscillation were used in the 8.9 cm column: 1.66 and 2.46 mm. Experimental values of volumetric mass-transfer coefficient for oxygen dissolution followed predictions of theory using a modified penetration model. A new phenomenon was observed and was predictable from theory, namely "flooding", which arises when bubbles are partially or fully retarded by Bjerknes forces at the point of injection. Under flooding conditions, transport enhancement levels off as frequency or amplitude is increased. Bubble-size distribution was measured as a function of frequency, and the calculated Sauter-mean diameter was satisfactorily fitted by the Hinze breakage formula. (c) 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.