Multiple Choice Questions on Respiratory System Related

Review Multiple Choice Questions on Respiratory System related questions and content

After inspiration commences the:

  • A. Intrapleural pressure and intrapulmonary P both fall
  • B. Intrapleural pressure falls and intrapulmonary P rises
  • C. Intrapleural pressure falls and venous return decreases
  • D. Intrapulmonary pressure rises and volume of the alveoli is momentarily unchanged
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: After inspiration commences, the diaphragm contracts and the thoracic cavity expands. This leads to a decrease in intrapleural pressure, allowing the lungs to expand. Simultaneously, intrapulmonary pressure decreases, creating a pressure gradient for air to flow into the lungs. Choice A is correct because both intrapleural pressure and intrapulmonary pressure fall during inspiration.

Choice B is incorrect because intrapulmonary pressure actually decreases during inspiration, not rises. Choice C is incorrect because intrapleural pressure falling does not directly correlate with a decrease in venous return. Choice D is incorrect because during inspiration, the volume of the alveoli increases as the lungs expand, causing intrapulmonary pressure to decrease.