the primary drive to breath is elicited by which of he following:
a.reduced PO2
b.reduced PCO2
c.increased PO2
d.increased PCO2
Try this document, which you must download:
www.health.utah.edu/healthpromotion/cep/continuingEd/..
Sra
The increase in CO2 in the blood stimulates the hypothalamus to increase breathing.
I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.
The primary drive to breathe is elicited by a change in the levels of certain gases in our blood, specifically oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2). The body monitors the concentration of these gases to regulate the breathing process.
To determine the correct answer to your question, we need to understand how the body's respiratory system responds to changes in these gases.
When the level of oxygen in the blood (also called arterial partial pressure of oxygen, or PO2) decreases, it indicates that there is not enough oxygen being delivered to the body's tissues. This triggers our body's urge to breathe in order to increase the oxygen supply. Therefore, option a., reduced PO2, is the correct answer.
On the other hand, a change in the level of carbon dioxide (also known as arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide, or PCO2) affects our breathing differently. When the level of CO2 in the blood increases, it causes a buildup of carbonic acid, leading to a decrease in blood pH. The body detects this change in pH and responds by increasing the respiratory rate to eliminate excess CO2 and restore normal pH levels. Therefore, option d., increased PCO2, is also partly correct as it influences our breathing rate indirectly.
In summary, the primary drive to breathe is primarily elicited by reduced PO2 (option a), but increased PCO2 (option d) also influences our breathing response.