Question 1

Which of the following best describes the role of the diaphragm during inspiration?

Accepted Answer

It contracts and moves downward, increasing thoracic volume.

Question 2

According to Henry's Law, the amount of a gas that dissolves in a liquid is proportional to which of the following?

Accepted Answer

The partial pressure of the gas above the liquid.

Question 3

A patient is experiencing rapid, shallow breathing. Which of the following is most likely to occur regarding CO$$_2$$ levels and blood pH?

Accepted Answer

CO$$_2$$ levels will increase, causing blood pH to decrease (acidosis).

Question 4

Which equation correctly represents the formation of bicarbonate in red blood cells?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{CO_2$ + H_2O \rightarrow H_2CO_3 \rightarrow $$HCO_3$$^- + H^+}$$

Question 5

Which of the following statements about hemoglobin is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen decreases in active tissues due to increased CO$$_2$$ and lower pH.

Question 6

During exercise, active tissues produce more CO$$_2. $$What effect does this have on the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve?

Accepted Answer

It shifts the curve to the right, decreasing oxygen affinity.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains the Bohr effect?

Accepted Answer

Increased CO$$_2$$ and H$$^+ in $$tissues cause hemoglobin to release more oxygen.

Question 8

Which of the following is the correct sequence of airflow from the trachea to the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

Trachea → Bronchi → Bronchioles → Alveolar ducts → Alveoli

Question 9

A person with emphysema has damaged alveolar walls. What is the most direct consequence of this damage?

Accepted Answer

Decreased surface area for gas exchange.

Question 10

Which of the following equations represents the relationship described by Boyle's Law?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 11

Which of the following best describes perfusion coupling in the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Matching blood flow to areas of high oxygen in the alveoli.

Question 12

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the transport of CO$$_2 in $$the blood?

Accepted Answer

Most CO$$_2 is $$transported as bicarbonate ions.

Question 13

A climber at high altitude is experiencing hypoxia. Which physiological response is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Increased respiratory rate and depth.

Question 14

Which of the following statements about surfactant is correct?

Accepted Answer

Surfactant reduces surface tension, preventing alveolar collapse.

Question 15

If the partial pressure of oxygen in the alveoli is 100 mmHg and in the pulmonary capillaries is 40 mmHg, in which direction will oxygen diffuse?

Accepted Answer

From the alveoli into the capillaries.

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is dangerous?

Accepted Answer

CO binds to hemoglobin with a much higher affinity than oxygen, preventing oxygen transport.

Question 17

Which of the following is a direct result of the Haldane effect?

Accepted Answer

Deoxygenated hemoglobin binds CO$$_2$$ more readily.

Question 18

A patient has a blood pH of 7.2 and elevated CO$$_2$$ levels. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory acidosis.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the movement of oxygen from the alveoli to the blood?

Accepted Answer

Simple diffusion down a partial pressure gradient.

Gas Exchange and Transport in the Respiratory System: Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions