Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a primary function of the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Producing digestive enzymes

Question 2

Which structure is the primary passageway for air entering the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Nose

Question 3

What is the main function of the cilia in the respiratory epithelium?

Accepted Answer

To propel mucus and trapped debris toward the pharynx

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the role of surfactant in the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

It reduces surface tension, preventing alveolar collapse

Question 5

According to Boyle’s Law, what happens to the pressure of a gas if the volume of its container is doubled?

Accepted Answer

The pressure is halved

Question 6

Which of the following muscles is responsible for about 75% of normal air movement during inhalation?

Accepted Answer

Diaphragm

Question 7

A patient inhales through the mouth instead of the nose. Which important function is most compromised?

Accepted Answer

Warming and humidifying incoming air

Question 8

Which of the following statements about the left lung is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

It has a cardiac notch

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why gas exchange across the blood air barrier is efficient?

Accepted Answer

Partial pressure differences are substantial

Question 10

Which of the following equations correctly represents Boyle’s Law as it applies to pulmonary ventilation?

Accepted Answer

$$P = 1/V$$

Question 11

During exhalation, which of the following occurs?

Accepted Answer

Intrapulmonary pressure rises above atmospheric pressure

Question 12

Which of the following is a function of the pleural fluid?

Accepted Answer

It lubricates the space between the parietal and visceral pleura

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a way that carbon dioxide is transported in the blood?

Accepted Answer

Bound to plasma proteins only

Question 14

A patient has a blockage in the right main bronchus. Which of the following is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Reduced airflow to the right lung

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the blood air barrier?

Accepted Answer

It consists of alveolar cell layer, capillary endothelial layer, and fused basement membrane

Question 16

Which of the following is a result of sympathetic stimulation during strong emotions?

Accepted Answer

Bronchodilation

Question 17

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the mechanics of breathing?

Accepted Answer

Inhalation is always active, exhalation can be active or passive

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why increasing tidal volume increases the amount of air reaching the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

It increases the total air inhaled, so more air reaches the alveoli

Question 19

Which of the following is a direct effect of the respiratory pump created by cyclical changes in intrapleural pressure?

Accepted Answer

It assists in venous return to the heart

Question 20

Which of the following is the correct sequence of airflow through the respiratory tract?

Accepted Answer

Nasal cavity → pharynx → larynx → trachea → bronchi → bronchioles → alveoli

The Respiratory System: Structure, Function, and Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions