If you climb a mountain to an altitude where the PO₂ is half of what it is at sea level, it is likely that

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the PO₂ is half of what it is at sea level, there is a decrease in the partial pressure of oxygen in the atmosphere, resulting in a decreased amount of oxygen being taken up by the lungs and transported to the tissues. In response to this, the carotid bodies and aortic bodies (chemoreceptors) located in the arteries detect the decreased partial pressure of oxygen and send signals to the medulla, which in turn increases the breathing rate in an attempt to compensate for the decreased oxygen supply. Therefore, choice B is the correct choice. Choice A is incorrect because the decreased partial pressure of oxygen does not cause increased acidity. Choice C is incorrect because the body is sensitive to changes in partial pressure of oxygen, not PCO2. Choice D is incorrect because the increased acidity is not caused by the high PCO2 in the atmosphere. Choice E is incorrect because an increase in hemoglobin saturation would result in increased oxygen release, not inability to release it.

If You Climb a Mountain to an Altitude Where the PO2

If You Climb a Mountain to an Altitude Where the PO₂