Questions and Answers on Respiratory System Related

Review Questions and Answers on Respiratory System related questions and content

Which of the following statements about the chloride shift is false?

  • A. It involves a movement of chloride ion into RBCs
  • B. It depends on the chloride-bicarbonate countertransporter
  • C. It causes RBCs to swell
  • D. It is driven by a rise in PCO2
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the chloride shift actually causes RBCs to shrink, not swell. During the chloride shift, chloride ions move out of RBCs in exchange for bicarbonate ions to maintain electrochemical equilibrium. This process helps maintain pH balance in blood. Choices A and B are correct as they accurately describe aspects of the chloride shift. Choice D is incorrect because the chloride shift is primarily driven by a decrease in PCO2, not a rise.