Q: If a person’s tidal volume (TV) is 500 mL, inspiratory reserve volume (IRV) is 3,100 mL, and expiratory reserve volume (ERV) is 1,200 mL, what is their vital capacity (VC)?

$$VC = 3,100 + 1,200 + 500 = 4,800\ \text{mL}$$

Question 1

Which of the following structures is the first to branch off from the trachea in the bronchial tree?

Accepted Answer

Primary bronchi

Question 2

During normal inhalation, which muscle is primarily responsible for increasing the vertical dimension of the thoracic cavity?

Accepted Answer

Diaphragm

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the function of the pleural fluid in the pleural cavity?

Accepted Answer

It reduces friction during lung movement.

Question 4

A patient has a puncture in the parietal pleura of the right lung. What is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Only the right lung may collapse; the left lung remains unaffected.

Question 5

Which of the following equations correctly represents vital capacity (VC) in terms of lung volumes?

Accepted Answer

$$VC = TV + IRV + ERV$$

Question 6

During forced exhalation, which muscles are primarily responsible for decreasing thoracic volume?

Accepted Answer

Internal intercostals and abdominal muscles

Question 7

Which of the following statements about the respiratory membrane is correct?

Accepted Answer

It consists of alveolar epithelium, fused basement membranes, and capillary endothelium.

Question 8

If a person’s tidal volume (TV) is 500 mL, inspiratory reserve volume (IRV) is 3,100 mL, and expiratory reserve volume (ERV) is 1,200 mL, what is their vital capacity (VC)?

Accepted Answer

$$VC = 3,100 + 1,200 + 500 = 4,800\ 	ext{mL}$$

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Alveolar pressure decreases below atmospheric pressure.

Question 10

A patient with laryngitis is likely to experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Hoarseness due to inflammation of the vocal folds

Question 11

Which of the following is the correct order of airflow from the nose to the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

Nose → Pharynx → Larynx → Trachea → Primary bronchi → Secondary bronchi → Tertiary bronchi → Terminal bronchioles → Respiratory bronchioles → Alveolar ducts → Alveoli

Question 12

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

Accepted Answer

They secrete surfactant to reduce surface tension in the alveoli.

Question 13

Which of the following changes occurs during forced inspiration?

Accepted Answer

The sternocleidomastoid and scalenes contract to further elevate the rib cage.

Question 14

Which of the following is a function of the nasal conchae (turbinates)?

Accepted Answer

They increase the surface area for warming and humidifying incoming air.

Question 15

A person exhales maximally after a normal tidal exhalation. Which lung volume is being measured?

Accepted Answer

Expiratory reserve volume (ERV)

Question 16

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

Accepted Answer

It closes over the glottis to prevent food from entering the trachea.

Question 17

Which of the following statements about the right and left main bronchi is correct?

Accepted Answer

The right main bronchus is shorter and more vertical than the left.

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why the lungs do not collapse under normal conditions?

Accepted Answer

The pressure in the pleural cavity is always lower than alveolar pressure, creating a suction effect.

Question 19

Which of the following is the correct formula for total lung capacity (TLC)?

Accepted Answer

$$TLC = IRV + TV + ERV + RV$$

Question 20

A person inhales deeply, then exhales as much air as possible. What is the total volume of air moved called?

Accepted Answer

Vital capacity

The Respiratory System: Structure, Function, and Pulmonary Ventilation

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