The most important stimulus for breathing in a healthy person is the body's need to rid itself of the blood gas called ________.
A) carbon dioxide
B) oxygen
C) methane
D) nitrous oxide

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Carbon dioxide is the waste product produced during cellular respiration, and it is the primary stimulus for breathing. When CO2 levels in the blood increase, it triggers the respiratory center in the brain to increase breathing rate and depth, allowing more CO2 to be exhaled and oxygen to be taken in. Oxygen also plays a role in regulating breathing, but it is not the primary stimulus. Methane and nitrous oxide are not normally present in the blood and are not involved in the regulation of breathing in healthy individuals.

The Most Important Stimulus for Breathing in a Healthy Person