How does increased carbon dioxide concentration affect the respiratory rate?

How does increased carbon dioxide concentration affect the respiratory rate?

• A. It decreases respiratory rate
• B. It has no effect on respiratory rate
• C. It stimulates an increase in respiratory rate
• D. It leads to irregular breathing patterns

Answer: (C)

Increased carbon dioxide concentration in the bloodstream leads to a condition known as hypercapnia. As carbon dioxide levels rise, it causes a decrease in blood pH, resulting in a more acidic environment. The body is sensitive to changes in pH and carbon dioxide levels, as these changes are critical indicators of metabolic activity and respiratory function. The respiratory center in the brain, particularly in the medulla oblongata, monitors carbon dioxide levels and adjusts the respiratory rate accordingly. When carbon dioxide concentration increases, the respiratory center is stimulated to enhance the rate and depth of breathing. This response aims to expel excess carbon dioxide and bring in more oxygen to restore balance. Therefore, an increase in carbon dioxide concentration directly correlates with a stimulated increase in the respiratory rate, helping to normalize blood gas levels.

Increased carbon dioxide concentration in the bloodstream leads to a condition known as hypercapnia. As carbon dioxide levels rise, it causes a decrease in blood pH, resulting in a more acidic environment. The body is sensitive to changes in pH and carbon dioxide levels, as these changes are critical indicators of metabolic activity and respiratory function.

The respiratory center in the brain, particularly in the medulla oblongata, monitors carbon dioxide levels and adjusts the respiratory rate accordingly. When carbon dioxide concentration increases, the respiratory center is stimulated to enhance the rate and depth of breathing. This response aims to expel excess carbon dioxide and bring in more oxygen to restore balance. Therefore, an increase in carbon dioxide concentration directly correlates with a stimulated increase in the respiratory rate, helping to normalize blood gas levels.