Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange between blood and air

Question 2

According to Boyle’s Law, what happens to the pressure of a gas if the volume of its container is doubled, assuming temperature is constant?

Accepted Answer

The pressure is halved

Question 3

During normal inspiration, which of the following events occurs?

Accepted Answer

Thorax enlarges and pressure drops below atmospheric pressure

Question 4

Which muscle is primarily responsible for increasing the vertical dimension of the thoracic cavity during inspiration?

Accepted Answer

Diaphragm

Question 5

A patient suffers a puncture wound to the thoracic wall, resulting in air entering the pleural cavity. What is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Loss of negative intrapleural pressure causing lung collapse (pneumothorax)

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why air moves into the lungs during inspiration?

Accepted Answer

Intrapulmonary pressure drops below atmospheric pressure

Question 7

Which muscles are most active during forced expiration, such as during vigorous exercise?

Accepted Answer

Internal intercostals and abdominal muscles

Question 8

What is the role of surfactant in the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

Reduces surface tension, making it easier for alveoli to expand

Question 9

Which of the following pressure values would you expect to find in the intrapleural space at rest?

Accepted Answer

$$756\ \mathrm{mmHg}$$

Question 10

A patient with decreased lung compliance will most likely have which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Difficulty inflating the lungs

Question 11

During expiration, which of the following occurs?

Accepted Answer

Intrapulmonary pressure rises above atmospheric pressure

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT a function of the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of plasma proteins

Question 13

If the atmospheric pressure is $$760\ \mathrm{mmHg}$$ and the intrapulmonary pressure is $$757\ \mathrm{mmHg}$$, what will happen?

Accepted Answer

Air will move into the lungs

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the relationship between pressure and volume in the lungs during ventilation?

Accepted Answer

Pressure and volume are inversely proportional

Question 15

Which of the following is a direct result of the diaphragm contracting?

Accepted Answer

Thoracic volume increases

Question 16

Which of the following scenarios would most likely lead to a pneumothorax?

Accepted Answer

Thoracic wall puncture allowing air into the pleural cavity

Question 17

Which of the following factors does NOT increase lung compliance?

Accepted Answer

Increased surface tension in alveoli

Question 18

During forced inspiration, which accessory muscles are recruited to raise the rib cage?

Accepted Answer

Sternocleidomastoids, scalenes, and pectoralis minor

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why surfactant is more effective when the lungs are uninflated?

Accepted Answer

Surfactant molecules are concentrated, reducing surface tension

Question 20

Which of the following statements about intrapleural pressure is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is always below atmospheric and intrapulmonary pressures

Respiratory System: Structure, Function, and Ventilation Mechanisms

Study Guide - Practice Questions