Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

22. The Respiratory System

Introduction to Lung Physiology

Anatomy & Physiology

22. The Respiratory System

Introduction to Lung Physiology

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Multiple Choice

How does the respiratory system function as a physiological buffer in the body?

By converting oxygen into glucose for energy storage

By directly increasing the production of bicarbonate ions in the kidneys

By regulating the concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood, which affects blood pH

By absorbing excess hydrogen ions from the bloodstream

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of a physiological buffer: A buffer system in the body helps maintain homeostasis by regulating pH levels, ensuring that the body's environment remains stable for proper cellular function.

Recognize the role of the respiratory system in buffering: The respiratory system regulates the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the blood, which directly impacts the pH level through the carbonic acid-bicarbonate buffer system.

Learn the chemical reaction involved: CO₂ combines with water (H₂O) in the blood to form carbonic acid (H₂CO₃). This reaction is reversible and can dissociate into bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻) and hydrogen ions (H⁺). The equation is:

{CO}_{2} + H_{2} O_{2} \leftrightarrow H_{2} {CO}_{3} \leftrightarrow H_{+} + {HCO}_{3}

Understand how CO₂ levels affect pH: When CO₂ levels increase, more carbonic acid is formed, leading to a decrease in pH (more acidic). Conversely, when CO₂ levels decrease, less carbonic acid is formed, leading to an increase in pH (more basic).

Recognize the respiratory system's role in regulation: By adjusting the rate and depth of breathing, the respiratory system can increase or decrease CO₂ exhalation, thereby influencing blood pH and maintaining homeostasis.