Mr.Smith moved from a low altitude to a high altitude and experienced an increase in RBCs.Which of the following caused this increase? A)the lower temperature present at higher altitudes B)the lower oxygen concentration seen at higher altitudes C)the increased metabolic rate seen at higher altitudes D)the increased CO₂ retention that occurs at high altitudes E)He exercised more.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

At higher altitudes, there is a lower oxygen concentration due to the decrease in atmospheric pressure. This causes the body to stimulate the production of red blood cells (RBCs) to increase oxygen-carrying capacity. This is a physiological adaptation known as altitude acclimatization. Therefore, the increase in RBCs experienced by Mr. Smith was likely due to the lower oxygen concentration seen at higher altitudes.

MrSmith Moved from a Low Altitude to a High Altitude