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Multiple Choice
What is the primary purpose of determining an individual's respiratory exchange ratio (RER) during cellular respiration studies?
A
To measure the total amount of ATP produced by the mitochondria
B
To determine the rate of oxygen diffusion across the alveolar membrane
C
To estimate the relative contributions of carbohydrates and fats to energy metabolism
D
To assess the pH of the blood during exercise
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of Respiratory Exchange Ratio (RER): RER is the ratio of carbon dioxide (CO₂) produced to oxygen (O₂) consumed during cellular respiration. It is calculated as RER = , where is the volume of CO₂ produced and is the volume of O₂ consumed.
Recognize the significance of RER values: RER values provide insight into the type of substrate being metabolized for energy. For example, an RER of 0.7 indicates fat metabolism, an RER of 1.0 indicates carbohydrate metabolism, and values in between suggest a mix of both.
Relate RER to energy metabolism: The primary purpose of determining RER is to estimate the relative contributions of carbohydrates and fats to energy metabolism. This is because different substrates (fats and carbohydrates) require different amounts of oxygen for their oxidation and produce different amounts of carbon dioxide.
Eliminate incorrect options: Measuring ATP production, oxygen diffusion rate, or blood pH are not directly related to the calculation of RER. These processes involve different physiological measurements and are not the primary focus of RER studies.
Conclude the purpose of RER: Based on the above understanding, the correct purpose of determining RER is to estimate the relative contributions of carbohydrates and fats to energy metabolism during cellular respiration studies.