Q: If a person’s tidal volume ($$V_T) is 500 mL $$and their respiratory rate (RR) is 12 breaths/min, what is their minute ventilation ($$\dot{V}_E$$)?

$$\dot{V}_E = 500 \text{ mL} \times 12 = 6000 \text{ mL/min}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of Type II alveolar cells in the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

They secrete surfactant to decrease surface tension in the alveoli.

Question 2

A patient with asthma experiences bronchoconstriction. Which of the following mechanisms is most likely responsible for this response?

Accepted Answer

Release of histamine during an allergic reaction

Question 3

Which equation correctly represents transpulmonary pressure?

Accepted Answer

$$P_{tp} = P_{alv} - P_{ip}$$

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

The external intercostal muscles contract, increasing thoracic volume.

Question 5

A patient with restrictive pulmonary disease will most likely have which of the following pulmonary function test results?

Accepted Answer

Decreased total lung capacity and decreased vital capacity

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why surfactant is critical for normal lung function?

Accepted Answer

It decreases the surface tension in the alveoli, increasing lung compliance.

Question 7

If a person’s tidal volume ($$V_T) is 500 mL $$and their respiratory rate (RR) is 12 breaths/min, what is their minute ventilation ($$\dot{V}_E$$)?

Accepted Answer

$$\dot{V}_E = 500 	ext{ mL} 	imes 12 = 6000 	ext{ mL/min}$$

Question 8

Which of the following statements about airway resistance is correct?

Accepted Answer

Airway resistance is primarily determined by the total cross-sectional area of the airways.

Question 9

A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is likely to have which of the following changes in lung volumes?

Accepted Answer

Increased functional residual capacity

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the anatomical dead space in the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

The volume of air in the conducting zone that does not participate in gas exchange

Question 11

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

Accepted Answer

Increased fibrosis or scarring of lung tissue

Question 12

During an asthma attack, which of the following changes occurs in the bronchioles?

Accepted Answer

Bronchoconstriction due to histamine release

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why intrapleural pressure ($$P_{ip}) is $$always negative under normal conditions?

Accepted Answer

It results from the opposing elastic recoils of the lungs and chest wall.

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct statement about the effect of the sympathetic nervous system on bronchiolar smooth muscle?

Accepted Answer

It causes relaxation of the smooth muscle, leading to bronchodilation.

Question 15

A patient’s forced vital capacity (FVC) is measured at 4000 mL, and their FEV1 is 2800 mL. What is their FEV1 as a percentage of FVC, and what does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

$$FEV1\% = \frac{2800}{4000} 	imes 100 = 70\%$$, indicating obstructive pulmonary disease

Question 16

Which of the following scenarios would most likely increase the pressure gradient required for airflow into the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Increased airway resistance due to mucus secretion

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the role of the mucus escalator in the conducting zone?

Accepted Answer

It moves trapped particles toward the mouth for removal.

Question 18

Which of the following is a characteristic of restrictive pulmonary diseases such as tuberculosis?

Accepted Answer

Decreased vital capacity

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why the pressure in the alveoli ($$P_{alv}) $$becomes less than atmospheric pressure ($$P_{atm}) $$during inspiration?

Accepted Answer

The thoracic cavity expands, increasing lung volume and decreasing $$P_{alv}.$$

Question 20

Which of the following is the correct formula for calculating minute ventilation ($$\dot{V}_E$$)?

Accepted Answer

$$\dot{V}_E = V_T 	imes RR$$

Pulmonary Ventilation and Respiratory System Physiology

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