Respiratory System Exam Questions Related

Review Respiratory System Exam Questions related questions and content

Rate and depth of respiration shall increase when

  • A. Oxygen concentration increases
  • B. CO2 concentration increases
  • C. Bicarbonate concentration increases
  • D. Bicarbonate concentration decrease
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: CO2 concentration increases. When CO2 levels rise in the blood, it leads to an increase in the acidity of the blood, triggering the respiratory centers in the brain to increase the rate and depth of respiration in order to expel excess CO2 and restore the pH balance.

Explanation for other choices:
A: Oxygen concentration increases - An increase in oxygen concentration does not directly stimulate an increase in respiration rate or depth. The respiratory drive is primarily regulated by CO2 levels.
C: Bicarbonate concentration increases - While bicarbonate is involved in the acid-base balance in the body, it does not directly influence the rate and depth of respiration.
D: Bicarbonate concentration decreases - A decrease in bicarbonate concentration may affect acid-base balance, but it does not have a direct effect on respiratory rate and depth.