Q: A patient has a tidal volume (TV) of 500 mL, an inspiratory reserve volume (IRV) of 3,100 mL, and an expiratory reserve volume (ERV) of 1,200 mL. What is this patient’s vital capacity (VC)? Use the formula $$ VC = TV + IRV + ERV .$$

$$ VC = 500 + 3,100 + 1,200 = 4,800 \text{ mL} $$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of surfactant in the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

It coats the alveolar surfaces to lower surface tension and prevent alveolar collapse.

Question 2

A patient has a tidal volume (TV) of 500 mL, an inspiratory reserve volume (IRV) of 3,100 mL, and an expiratory reserve volume (ERV) of 1,200 mL. What is this patient’s vital capacity (VC)? Use the formula $$ VC = TV + IRV + ERV .$$

Accepted Answer

$$ VC = 500 + 3,100 + 1,200 = 4,800 	ext{ mL} $$

Question 3

Which structure is the primary site of gas exchange between the air and blood in the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Alveoli

Question 4

During inspiration, which of the following changes occurs in the thoracic cavity?

Accepted Answer

The ribs are elevated and the diaphragm contracts, increasing thoracic volume.

Question 5

Most carbon dioxide is transported in the blood in which form?

Accepted Answer

As bicarbonate ion ($$ $$HCO_3$$^- ) in $$plasma

Question 6

A newborn is born prematurely at 28 weeks gestation. Which respiratory problem is this infant most at risk for, and why?

Accepted Answer

Atelectasis (lung collapse), due to insufficient surfactant production

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why intrapleural pressure must remain negative relative to atmospheric pressure?

Accepted Answer

To prevent the lungs from collapsing by keeping them expanded against the thoracic wall

Question 8

Which of the following is a function of the paranasal sinuses?

Accepted Answer

They lighten the skull, secrete mucus, and help warm and moisten air.

Question 9

A patient is breathing rapidly and deeply after running a marathon. Which term best describes this increased respiratory rate due to extra oxygen needs?

Accepted Answer

Hyperpnea

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the movement of gases during external respiration?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the blood, and carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveoli.

Question 11

Which neural structure is primarily responsible for setting the basic rhythm of breathing?

Accepted Answer

Medulla oblongata

Question 12

A person’s blood pH drops due to increased carbon dioxide levels. What is the expected response of the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Increase in respiratory rate to expel more CO$$_2$$

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a function of the conducting zone of the respiratory tract?

Accepted Answer

Exchanging gases between air and blood

Question 14

If a person’s inspiratory reserve volume (IRV) is 2,800 mL, expiratory reserve volume (ERV) is 1,100 mL, and tidal volume (TV) is 500 mL, what is their vital capacity (VC)? Use $$ VC = TV + IRV + ERV .$$

Accepted Answer

$$ VC = 2,800 + 1,100 + 500 = 4,400 	ext{ mL} $$

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why air flows into the lungs during inspiration?

Accepted Answer

Thoracic cavity volume increases, causing intrapulmonary pressure to drop below atmospheric pressure.

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct statement about the transport of oxygen in the blood?

Accepted Answer

Most oxygen is transported attached to hemoglobin as oxyhemoglobin ($$ $$HbO_2$$ ).$$

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the role of alveolar macrophages?

Accepted Answer

They pick up bacteria, carbon particles, and other debris to protect the alveoli.

Question 18

A person inhales deeply and then forcibly exhales as much air as possible. Which respiratory volumes are involved in this process?

Accepted Answer

Inspiratory reserve volume, tidal volume, and expiratory reserve volume

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the direction of gas movement during internal respiration?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen diffuses from blood into tissue cells; carbon dioxide diffuses from tissue cells into the blood.

Question 20

Which of the following is a non-respiratory air movement that serves to clear the lower respiratory passageways?

Accepted Answer

Cough

Chapter 13: The Respiratory System – Anatomy & Physiology Study Notes

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