Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

To serve as the main site for gas exchange between air and blood

Question 2

During inspiration, which muscle contracts to increase the vertical dimension of the thoracic cavity?

Accepted Answer

Diaphragm

Question 3

A patient with damage to the pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium lining the trachea would most likely experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Impaired movement of mucus and increased risk of respiratory infection

Question 4

Which structure marks the division between the upper and lower respiratory tracts?

Accepted Answer

Larynx

Question 5

Which of the following equations correctly represents the relationship between pressure and volume during pulmonary ventilation (Boyle’s Law)?

Accepted Answer

$$P_1V_1 = P_2V_2$$

Question 6

Which of the following is a function of the nasal conchae during inhalation?

Accepted Answer

Increase the surface area to filter, heat, and moisten incoming air

Question 7

A patient with a tumor compressing the left main (primary) bronchus would most likely experience which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Reduced airflow to the left lung

Question 8

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

Accepted Answer

It reduces surface tension, preventing alveolar collapse

Question 9

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the difference between the right and left main (primary) bronchi?

Accepted Answer

The right main bronchus is wider and shorter than the left

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why the pleural cavity is important for lung function?

Accepted Answer

It provides a frictionless environment for lung movement during breathing

Question 11

A patient with chronic bronchitis is likely to have which of the following symptoms due to the pathophysiology of the disease?

Accepted Answer

Excess mucus production and chronic productive cough

Question 12

Which of the following structures is responsible for closing off the nasopharynx during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

Uvula

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the tissue change as the bronchial tree branches from the trachea to the terminal bronchioles?

Accepted Answer

Cartilage rings are replaced by cartilage plates and epithelium transitions from pseudostratified ciliated columnar to simple cuboidal

Question 14

Which of the following is the correct sequence of airflow from the nasal cavity to the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

Nasal cavity → Pharynx → Larynx → Trachea → Bronchi → Alveoli

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the effect of sympathetic stimulation on the bronchioles?

Accepted Answer

Bronchodilation and vasoconstriction

Question 16

A patient with emphysema will have difficulty with gas exchange primarily because:

Accepted Answer

The alveolar walls are destroyed, reducing surface area for exchange

Question 17

Which of the following is the main function of the pharynx in the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

To act as a passageway for both air and food

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the neural control of ventilation?

Accepted Answer

The ventral respiratory group (VRG) in the medulla generates the basic rhythm of breathing

Question 19

Which of the following is a characteristic feature of the respiratory mucosa?

Accepted Answer

It contains pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium and goblet cells

Question 20

A patient is unable to produce sound due to paralysis of the vocal folds. Which structure is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Vocal folds (true vocal cords)

The Respiratory System: Structure, Function, and Clinical Correlates

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards