An increase in the PCO₂ of arterial blood may result in respiratory centers acting to A) decrease the rate of breathing. B) increase the rate of breathing. C) decrease pulmonary ventilation. D) increase the amount of air in the anatomic dead space. E) decrease the vital capacity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An increase in PCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) in arterial blood is a signal to the respiratory centers in the brain to increase the rate and depth of breathing in order to rid the body of excess CO2 through exhalation. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

An Increase in the PCO2 of Arterial Blood May Result

An Increase in the PCO₂ of Arterial Blood May Result