Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The conducting zone includes structures that filter, warm, and moisten air, while the respiratory zone consists of structures where gas exchange occurs.

Question 2

Why do the oropharynx and laryngopharynx have non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium instead of pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium?

Accepted Answer

Because these regions are exposed to food and abrasion, requiring a protective, but moist, surface.

Question 3

Goblet cells in the respiratory tract secrete mucus primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Trap dust, pathogens, and other particles to prevent them from reaching the lungs.

Question 4

What is the primary function of cilia in the respiratory tract, and where do they move mucus?

Accepted Answer

Cilia move mucus toward the pharynx, where it can be swallowed or expectorated.

Question 5

Numerous blood vessels are found in the nasal cavity primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Warm and humidify incoming air before it reaches the lungs.

Question 6

Which component of the pharynx connects with the auditory tubes?

Accepted Answer

Nasopharynx

Question 7

Why are the cartilage rings in the trachea C-shaped rather than completely encircling?

Accepted Answer

To provide rigidity while allowing the esophagus to expand posteriorly during swallowing.

Question 8

How many lobes are present in the right lung, and what are their names?

Accepted Answer

Three lobes: superior, middle, and inferior

Question 9

If a segment of the lung is damaged or surgically removed, what is the likely effect on overall lung function?

Accepted Answer

Only the affected segment will lose function, as each segment is supplied by its own segmental bronchi and blood vessels.

Question 10

Which bronchiole marks the end of the conducting zone and which is part of the respiratory zone?

Accepted Answer

Terminal bronchiole marks the end of the conducting zone; respiratory bronchiole is part of the respiratory zone.

Question 11

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

Accepted Answer

They secrete surfactant to reduce surface tension and prevent alveolar collapse.

Question 12

During inspiration, what happens to intrapleural and intrapulmonary pressures, and how does this affect lung inflation?

Accepted Answer

Intrapulmonary pressure decreases below atmospheric pressure, allowing air to flow into the lungs.

Question 13

A patient with pneumothorax will most likely experience which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Collapse of the affected lung due to loss of negative intrapleural pressure.

Question 14

Given the following values: tidal volume $$TV = 500\,mL$$, anatomic dead space $$ADS = 150\,mL$$, and respiratory rate $$RR = 12\,breaths/min$$, what is the alveolar ventilation rate $$AVR$$?

Accepted Answer

$$AVR = (TV - ADS) 	imes RR = (500 - 150) 	imes 12 = 4,200\,mL/min$$

Question 15

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 16

Why is carbon dioxide converted to bicarbonate in the blood? Select the two main reasons discussed.

Accepted Answer

To buffer blood pH and keep partial pressure of CO$$_2 in $$blood low.

Question 17

At high elevations, the partial pressure of O$$_2$$ decreases. What effect does this have on hemoglobin saturation?

Accepted Answer

Hemoglobin saturation decreases, resulting in less oxygen being carried in the blood.

Question 18

Which region of the CNS is primarily responsible for regulating quiet breathing?

Accepted Answer

Medullary respiratory center (medulla oblongata)

Question 19

Which chemoreceptor is most critical for regulating the rate of respiration?

Accepted Answer

Peripheral chemoreceptors in the carotid and aortic bodies

Question 20

A patient with emphysema will most likely experience which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Decreased alveolar surface area, leading to impaired gas exchange and shortness of breath.

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