Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the respiratory zone in the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Gas exchange between air and blood

Question 2

A patient is experiencing difficulty with gas exchange due to thickening of the respiratory membrane. Which structure is most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Type I alveolar cells

Question 3

Which equation correctly represents the chemical reaction catalyzed by carbonic anhydrase in red blood cells?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{CO_2$ + H_2O \xrightleftharpoons[carbonic\ anhydrase]{}} H_2CO_3 \xrightleftharpoons[]{} $$HCO_3$$^- + H^+}$$

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT a function of the nasal conchae?

Accepted Answer

Directly facilitating gas exchange with blood

Question 5

A child swallows a small toy, which becomes lodged in the right main (primary) bronchus. Why is this location more likely than the left?

Accepted Answer

The right main bronchus is shorter, wider, and more vertical

Question 6

Which type of epithelium lines the oropharynx and laryngopharynx, and why is this important?

Accepted Answer

Nonkeratinized stratified squamous; for protection against abrasion

Question 7

Which of the following best explains how the respiratory system helps regulate blood pH?

Accepted Answer

By eliminating $$\mathrm{CO_2$}$$, which reduces $$\mathrm{H^+}$$ concentration in blood

Question 8

A patient with pneumonia has fluid accumulation in the alveoli. Which process is most directly impaired?

Accepted Answer

Gas exchange between air and blood

Question 9

Which structure prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottis

Question 10

Which of the following is a function of Type II alveolar cells?

Accepted Answer

Secreting surfactant to reduce surface tension

Question 11

A patient with a genetic defect in surfactant production is likely to experience which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Collapse of alveoli due to increased surface tension

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the difference between the conducting zone and the respiratory zone of the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

The conducting zone transports, filters, and humidifies air; the respiratory zone is where gas exchange occurs

Question 13

Which of the following structures is NOT part of the lower respiratory tract?

Accepted Answer

Pharynx

Question 14

During vigorous exercise, the body produces more $$\mathrm{CO_2$}. $$How does the respiratory system respond to help maintain homeostasis?

Accepted Answer

Increases breathing rate to eliminate excess $$\mathrm{CO_2$}$$

Question 15

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the right lung compared to the left lung?

Accepted Answer

The right lung has three lobes; the left lung has two

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why the trachea contains C-shaped cartilage rings?

Accepted Answer

To allow for expansion of the esophagus during swallowing

Question 17

A patient with a blocked pharyngotympanic (auditory) tube may experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Impaired pressure equalization in the middle ear

Question 18

Which of the following is the correct order of airflow from the nasal cavity to the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

Nasal cavity → pharynx → larynx → trachea → bronchi → bronchioles → alveoli

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

Phagocytizing and removing inhaled particles and pathogens

Question 20

Which of the following is a direct result of the respiratory system's role in producing angiotensin II?

Accepted Answer

Regulation of blood pressure through vasoconstriction

Chapter 22: The Respiratory System – Structure, Function, and Gas Exchange

Study Guide - Practice Questions