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Multiple Choice
What might occur if the chest cavity is punctured?
A
Both lungs will collapse simultaneously, leading to instant respiratory failure.
B
The diaphragm will become paralyzed, stopping all breathing.
C
The heart rate will immediately double to compensate for the injury.
D
The lung on the affected side may collapse due to loss of negative pressure.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the anatomy of the chest cavity: The chest cavity is a sealed space that houses the lungs, heart, and diaphragm. It is crucial for maintaining the negative pressure required for lung expansion during breathing.
Recognize the role of negative pressure: The lungs are surrounded by a pleural cavity that maintains a negative pressure relative to the atmospheric pressure. This negative pressure is essential for keeping the lungs inflated.
Identify the impact of a puncture: If the chest cavity is punctured, air can enter the pleural space, disrupting the negative pressure. This condition is known as pneumothorax.
Consider the effects on the lungs: When the negative pressure is lost, the lung on the affected side may collapse because it can no longer expand properly during inhalation.
Evaluate the physiological response: While the lung on the affected side may collapse, the other lung can continue to function. The body may attempt to compensate through increased respiratory rate or heart rate, but immediate collapse of both lungs or paralysis of the diaphragm is unlikely.