Question 1

Which law explains why the total pressure exerted by a mixture of gases is the sum of the pressures exerted independently by each gas in the mixture?

Accepted Answer

Dalton's Law of Partial Pressures

Question 2

During quiet inspiration, which muscle is primarily responsible for increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity?

Accepted Answer

Diaphragm

Question 3

According to Boyle's Law, if the volume of a gas decreases at constant temperature, what happens to its pressure?

Accepted Answer

Pressure increases

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Decreases surface tension to prevent alveolar collapse

Question 5

A patient with chronic bronchitis has increased airway resistance. Which physical factor is most likely responsible for this?

Accepted Answer

Decreased diameter of bronchioles

Question 6

If the partial pressure of oxygen ($$P_{O_2$}) in $$the alveoli is 100 mm Hg and in the pulmonary capillaries is 40 mm Hg, in which direction will oxygen diffuse?

Accepted Answer

From alveoli to capillaries

Question 7

Which equation correctly represents the conversion of carbon dioxide to bicarbonate in red blood cells?

Accepted Answer

$$CO_2 + H_2O$$ \rightarrow H_2CO_3 \rightarrow $$HCO_3^- + H$$^+$$

Question 8

Which of the following would most likely increase the efficiency of gas exchange in the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Thin respiratory membrane and large alveolar surface area

Question 9

A person is experiencing strong emotions and pain, which activates the limbic system. How does this affect respiration?

Accepted Answer

It activates sympathetic centers in the hypothalamus, modifying respiratory rate and depth

Question 10

Which of the following is true regarding the relationship between $$P_{CO_2$}$$ and the rate of bicarbonate ion formation in plasma?

Accepted Answer

As $$P_{CO_2$}$$ increases, the rate of bicarbonate ion formation increases

Question 11

Which of the following best explains the Bohr effect?

Accepted Answer

Lower pH and higher $$P_{CO_2$}$$ decrease hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen

Question 12

Which respiratory volume represents the amount of air remaining in the lungs after a forced expiration?

Accepted Answer

Residual volume

Question 13

What is the primary mechanism by which $$CO_2 is $$transported in the blood?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

Which of the following would most likely result in a decrease in lung compliance?

Accepted Answer

Chronic fibrosis of lung tissue

Question 15

If the intrapleural pressure becomes equal to the alveolar pressure, what is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Lungs will collapse (pneumothorax)

Question 16

Which of the following equations correctly represents Boyle's Law?

Accepted Answer

$$P_1$$ $$V_1$$ = $$P_2$$ $$V_2$$

Question 17

Which cell type in the alveoli is responsible for producing surfactant?

Accepted Answer

Type II alveolar cells

Question 18

A patient is hyperventilating, causing a decrease in $$P_{CO_2$} in $$arterial blood. What effect will this have on blood pH?

Accepted Answer

Blood pH will increase (alkalosis)

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the Haldane effect?

Accepted Answer

Deoxygenation of blood increases the ability of hemoglobin to carry carbon dioxide

Question 20

Which respiratory center in the medulla is primarily responsible for setting the basic rhythm of breathing?

Accepted Answer

Ventral respiratory group (VRG)

Comprehensive Study Notes: The Respiratory System (Ch. 22)

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