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Multiple Choice
How does the level of carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$) in a person's blood change when they hyperventilate?
A
It increases because less $\mathrm{CO_2}$ is exhaled.
B
It increases because more $\mathrm{CO_2}$ is produced during hyperventilation.
C
It decreases because excess $\mathrm{CO_2}$ is exhaled rapidly.
D
It remains unchanged because breathing rate does not affect $\mathrm{CO_2}$ levels.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the process of hyperventilation. Hyperventilation is characterized by rapid and deep breathing, which increases the rate of gas exchange in the lungs.
Step 2: Recall the role of carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$) in the blood. $\mathrm{CO_2}$ is a waste product of cellular respiration and is transported in the blood to the lungs for exhalation.
Step 3: Analyze the effect of hyperventilation on $\mathrm{CO_2}$ levels. During hyperventilation, the rapid breathing causes an increased exhalation of $\mathrm{CO_2}$, leading to a decrease in its concentration in the blood.
Step 4: Consider the physiological consequences of decreased $\mathrm{CO_2}$ levels. A drop in blood $\mathrm{CO_2}$ can lead to respiratory alkalosis, where the blood becomes less acidic due to reduced $\mathrm{CO_2}$ levels.
Step 5: Evaluate the given options. The correct answer is: 'It decreases because excess $\mathrm{CO_2}$ is exhaled rapidly,' as hyperventilation results in the rapid removal of $\mathrm{CO_2}$ from the blood.