Textbook Question
Why do individuals who are anemic generally not exhibit an increase in respiratory rate or tidal volume, even though their blood is not carrying enough oxygen?
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22. The Respiratory System
Respiration
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Which of the following factors influence the rate and depth of breathing?
A
Number of red blood cells
B
Concentration of glucose in the urine
C
Amount of bile produced by the liver
D
Levels of carbon dioxide in the blood
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the primary function of the respiratory system: The respiratory system is responsible for gas exchange, primarily oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal. The rate and depth of breathing are regulated to maintain homeostasis in blood gas levels.
Identify the key factor influencing breathing: The levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood play a critical role in regulating breathing. High CO2 levels lead to increased acidity (lower pH) in the blood, which triggers the respiratory centers in the brain to adjust breathing rate and depth.
Learn about the role of chemoreceptors: Specialized chemoreceptors located in the medulla oblongata and peripheral areas (like the carotid and aortic bodies) detect changes in CO2, oxygen, and pH levels in the blood. These chemoreceptors send signals to the brain to modify breathing patterns.
Exclude irrelevant factors: The number of red blood cells, concentration of glucose in the urine, and amount of bile produced by the liver do not directly influence the rate and depth of breathing. These factors are related to other physiological processes, such as oxygen transport, kidney function, and digestion, respectively.
Summarize the mechanism: When CO2 levels rise, the respiratory centers in the brain (primarily the medulla oblongata) stimulate an increase in the rate and depth of breathing to expel excess CO2 and restore normal blood pH levels.
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