Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the alveoli in the lungs?

Accepted Answer

To serve as the main site for gas exchange between air and blood

Question 2

A patient with a deviated septum is most likely to experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Obstructed airflow through one nasal cavity

Question 3

Which structure prevents food from entering the larynx during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottis

Question 4

A person inhales deeply and then forcibly exhales as much air as possible. The total volume of air exhaled is called:

Accepted Answer

Vital capacity ($$VC)$$

Question 5

Which of the following is the most common way carbon dioxide is transported in the blood?

Accepted Answer

As bicarbonate ions ($$HCO_3$$^-$$)

Question 6

A premature infant is experiencing difficulty inflating the lungs. This is most likely due to a deficiency of:

Accepted Answer

Surfactant

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why air moves into the lungs during inspiration?

Accepted Answer

The thoracic cavity volume increases, decreasing lung pressure below atmospheric pressure

Question 8

Which of the following is a life-threatening upper respiratory tract disorder caused by Haemophilus influenzae type B?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottitis

Question 9

A patient presents with cycles of alternating apnea and hyperventilation. This breathing pattern is known as:

Accepted Answer

Cheyne-Stokes respiration

Question 10

Which of the following structures is responsible for producing the mucus blanket that traps inspired irritants in the respiratory tract?

Accepted Answer

Goblet cells in the respiratory mucosa

Question 11

Aspirated objects are most likely to lodge in which part of the respiratory system, and why?

Accepted Answer

Right primary bronchus, because it is more vertical

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the function of the pleura?

Accepted Answer

To reduce friction between the lungs and chest wall during breathing

Question 13

A patient with a collapsed lung due to air in the pleural space is suffering from:

Accepted Answer

Pneumothorax

Question 14

Which muscles are primarily responsible for forceful expiration?

Accepted Answer

Internal intercostals and abdominal muscles

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT a function of the pharynx?

Accepted Answer

Voice production

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the role of chemoreceptors in the regulation of respiration?

Accepted Answer

They respond to changes in carbon dioxide, oxygen, and blood acid levels

Question 17

A patient with chronic bronchitis and emphysema is most likely to be diagnosed with which condition?

Accepted Answer

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Question 18

Which of the following equations correctly represents the relationship between pressure and volume during pulmonary ventilation?

Accepted Answer

$$P_1$$ $$V_1$$ = $$P_2$$ $$V_2$$

Question 19

Which of the following is the correct order of airflow through the respiratory tract during inspiration?

Accepted Answer

Nose → Pharynx → Larynx → Trachea → Bronchi → Bronchioles → Alveoli

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why a tracheostomy may be performed in a patient with a blocked airway?

Accepted Answer

To provide an alternative passage for air to reach the lungs

Study Guide: The Respiratory System (Anatomy & Physiology)

Study Guide - Practice Questions