Respiratory System Exam Questions Related

Review Respiratory System Exam Questions related questions and content

With respect to regional gas exchange in the upright lung

  • A. Ventilation is greater at the top of the lungs
  • B. Perfusion is much greater at the top of the lungs compared with the bases
  • C. Ventilation/perfusion ratio is abnormally high at the top of the lungs
  • D. PO2 is highest at the bases of the lungs
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because in the upright lung, the ventilation-perfusion ratio is higher at the top due to gravity causing increased perfusion at the bases. This results in a mismatch between ventilation and perfusion, leading to a higher V/Q ratio at the top. Choices A and B are incorrect because ventilation is actually greater at the bases due to the effect of gravity, leading to higher ventilation there. Choice D is incorrect because PO2 is higher at the apex of the lung due to decreased perfusion but not at the bases.