Question 1

Which of the following structures is the only externally visible part of the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Nose

Question 2

What is the primary function of the respiratory mucosa lining the nasal cavity?

Accepted Answer

To moisten air, trap foreign particles, and destroy bacteria

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the role of the epiglottis during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

It routes food to the esophagus and air to the trachea

Question 4

Which structure is responsible for the actual exchange of gases between the blood and the external environment?

Accepted Answer

Alveoli

Question 5

During inspiration, what happens to the intrapulmonary volume and gas pressure?

Accepted Answer

Volume increases, pressure decreases

Question 6

Which of the following equations correctly represents the conversion of carbon dioxide for transport in the blood?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 7

A patient with a collapsed lung likely has which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Intrapleural pressure equals atmospheric pressure

Question 8

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

Accepted Answer

It coats alveolar surfaces to reduce surface tension and prevent collapse

Question 9

Which neural center is primarily responsible for setting the basic rhythm of breathing?

Accepted Answer

Medulla oblongata

Question 10

A person is experiencing hyperventilation. What is the most likely effect on blood pH?

Accepted Answer

Blood pH increases, leading to alkalosis

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct sequence of airflow during inspiration?

Accepted Answer

Nose → Pharynx → Larynx → Trachea → Bronchi → Alveoli

Question 12

Which of the following statements about gas exchange is correct?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into the blood during external respiration

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a function of the paranasal sinuses?

Accepted Answer

Directly exchanging gases with the blood

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why the right main bronchus is more likely to be the site of an inhaled foreign object?

Accepted Answer

It is wider, shorter, and straighter than the left

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the movement of gases during external respiration?

Accepted Answer

Gases move from areas of high concentration to low concentration

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of the tonsils located in the pharynx?

Accepted Answer

Protecting the body from infection

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the effect of aging on the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Blood oxygen levels decrease

Question 18

Which of the following is the correct formula for the transport of oxygen in the blood?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{O_2$ + Hb \rightarrow $$HbO_2$$}$$

Question 19

A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has become accustomed to high levels of carbon dioxide. Which chemical factor now primarily stimulates their breathing?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen levels detected by peripheral chemoreceptors

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the role of alveolar macrophages ("dust cells")?

Accepted Answer

They pick up bacteria, carbon particles, and debris

Study Notes: The Respiratory System (Chapter 13) – Essentials of Human Anatomy & Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards