Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

To increase surface area and turbulence, warming and moistening inhaled air

Question 2

During swallowing, which structure prevents food from entering the nasal cavity?

Accepted Answer

Soft palate and uvula

Question 3

A patient presents with a collapsed lung following a stab wound. Which condition is most likely present?

Accepted Answer

Pneumothorax

Question 4

Which of the following equations correctly represents the relationship between carbon dioxide and plasma pH?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 5

Which of the following is the main muscle responsible for inspiration during quiet breathing?

Accepted Answer

Diaphragm

Question 6

According to Dalton’s Law, how is the total atmospheric pressure calculated?

Accepted Answer

By adding the partial pressures of all gases present

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why carbon monoxide poisoning is so dangerous?

Accepted Answer

CO binds to hemoglobin with a much higher affinity than O2, reducing O2 delivery to tissues

Question 8

A person with chronic bronchitis is likely to experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Coughing with sputum production

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Nasal cavity → pharynx → larynx → trachea → bronchi → bronchioles → alveoli

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

Decreases surface tension, making it easier for alveoli to remain open

Question 11

Which of the following is a protective mechanism of the respiratory system that helps remove irritants from the upper airway?

Accepted Answer

Ciliary escalator

Question 12

A patient at high altitude is experiencing increased ventilation. Which of the following best explains this response?

Accepted Answer

Decreased atmospheric pressure leads to decreased $$P_{O_2$}$$, stimulating peripheral chemoreceptors

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the difference between ventilation and respiration?

Accepted Answer

Ventilation is the movement of air in and out of the lungs; respiration is the exchange, transport, and utilization of gases

Question 14

Which of the following respiratory volumes is defined as the amount of air that can be forcefully exhaled after a normal tidal expiration?

Accepted Answer

Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV)

Question 15

Which of the following is the primary way that carbon dioxide is transported in the blood?

Accepted Answer

As bicarbonate ion in plasma

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the effect of increased CO2/H+ concentration on ventilation?

Accepted Answer

It stimulates hyperventilation via central chemoreceptors

Question 17

A patient with emphysema is likely to have which of the following physiological changes?

Accepted Answer

Breakdown of alveolar walls, reducing surface area for gas exchange

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct formula for calculating Vital Capacity (VC)?

Accepted Answer

$$VC = TV + IRV + ERV$$

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of the medulla oblongata in breathing?

Accepted Answer

It contains the respiratory centers that regulate the rate and depth of breathing

Question 20

Which type of hypoxia is caused by decreased blood flow to a tissue?

Accepted Answer

Ischemic hypoxia

Unit 6: The Respiratory System – Structure, Function, and Regulation

Study Guide - Practice Questions