Respiration is reflexively inhibited by alkalosis caused by a reduction in concentration of non-carbon dioxide-generated H⁺, the result of which is accumulation of H⁺-generating carbon dioxide to restore the acid-base balance toward normal.

Question

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The statement is true. When the blood becomes alkaline (alkalosis), respiration is inhibited reflexively. This is because alkalosis reduces the concentration of non-carbon dioxide-generated hydrogen ions (H⁺) in the blood, which is compensated by the accumulation of H⁺-generating carbon dioxide. This restores the normal acid-base balance in the blood. The respiratory center in the brainstem senses these changes in the blood pH and adjusts the breathing rate and depth accordingly to regulate the carbon dioxide concentration and maintain acid-base balance.

Respiration Is Reflexively Inhibited by Alkalosis Caused by a Reduction