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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is NOT a stimulus for breathing?
A
Decreased levels of oxygen ($\mathrm{O_2}$) in the blood
B
Increased levels of carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$) in the blood
C
Increased blood glucose levels
D
Decreased blood pH
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the primary stimuli for breathing: Breathing is regulated by the respiratory control centers in the brain, primarily in response to changes in blood levels of oxygen ($\mathrm{O_2}$), carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$), and pH.
Recognize the role of carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$): Increased levels of $\mathrm{CO_2}$ in the blood stimulate breathing because $\mathrm{CO_2}$ combines with water to form carbonic acid, which lowers blood pH. This triggers chemoreceptors to signal the brain to increase respiratory rate.
Understand the role of oxygen ($\mathrm{O_2}$): Decreased levels of $\mathrm{O_2}$ in the blood can also stimulate breathing, although this is a secondary mechanism compared to $\mathrm{CO_2}$ and pH changes. Peripheral chemoreceptors detect low $\mathrm{O_2}$ levels and signal the brain to adjust breathing.
Learn about blood pH: Decreased blood pH (acidosis) is a direct stimulus for breathing. When blood becomes more acidic, chemoreceptors in the brain and arteries detect this change and increase respiratory rate to expel $\mathrm{CO_2}$ and restore pH balance.
Identify the exception: Increased blood glucose levels are not a stimulus for breathing. Glucose levels are regulated by insulin and glucagon, and they do not directly affect the respiratory control centers or chemoreceptors involved in breathing regulation.