Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

To facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and blood

Question 2

During inspiration, which of the following events occurs to allow air to enter the lungs?

Accepted Answer

The diaphragm contracts and moves downward, increasing thoracic volume

Question 3

Which law explains the relationship between the volume and pressure of the thoracic cavity during breathing?

Accepted Answer

Boyle's Law

Question 4

A patient presents with a pH of 7.30. Which of the following best describes their condition?

Accepted Answer

Acidemia

Question 5

Which structure acts as a 'trap door' to prevent food from entering the trachea during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottis

Question 6

What is the main role of the pleural membranes?

Accepted Answer

To hold the lung tissue flush against the ribcage for efficient ventilation

Question 7

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the passage of air from the nose to the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

Nose → Pharynx → Larynx → Trachea → Bronchi → Bronchioles → Alveoli

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why the left lung is smaller than the right lung?

Accepted Answer

The apex of the heart extends into the left side of the thorax

Question 9

A patient with metabolic acidosis will compensate by which of the following mechanisms?

Accepted Answer

Inducing respiratory alkalosis by increasing respiratory rate

Question 10

Which of the following is true regarding the normal adult respiratory rate?

Accepted Answer

It is typically 12–20 breaths per minute

Question 11

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

Accepted Answer

It decreases the surface tension to keep alveoli open

Question 12

Which structure is responsible for producing sound (phonation) in the human respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Larynx

Question 13

A patient is observed to have intercostal and sternal recession during breathing. What does this most likely indicate?

Accepted Answer

Obstruction or increased work of breathing

Question 14

Which of the following equations correctly represents Boyle’s Law as it applies to pulmonary ventilation?

Accepted Answer

$P_1 V_1 = P_2 V_2$

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT a function of the pharynx?

Accepted Answer

Gas exchange between blood and air

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the direction of air movement during expiration?

Accepted Answer

From regions of high pressure in the thorax to lower pressure in the atmosphere

Question 17

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

Accepted Answer

Primary bronchi

Question 18

Which of the following is a byproduct of cellular metabolism that is expelled from the body via the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Carbon dioxide

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

The pressure inside the thorax falls below atmospheric pressure

Question 20

Which of the following is a correct statement about the lobes of the lungs?

Accepted Answer

The right lung has three lobes and the left lung has two lobes

The Respiratory System: Structure, Function, and Medical Terminology

Study Guide - Practice Questions