PHYS 261 (Human Physiology)
Chapter 17 Lecture Notes (Mechanics
of Breathing) Questions with Accurate
Answers
Pulmonary Ventilation - ANSWERSThe movement of air into and out of the lungs.
Total Pulmonary Ventilation - ANSWERSTidal volume x Ventilation Rate
Alveoli - ANSWERSTiny air sacs that function as gas exchange site of the respiratory
system.
Surfactant - ANSWERSDecreases surface tension in the fluid lining the alveoli which
prevents smaller alveoli from collapsing.
Surfactant - ANSWERSA mixture containing proteins and phospholipids that is more
concentrated in smaller alveoli.
Boyle's Law - ANSWERSStates that as the volume available to gas increases, the gas
pressure decreases.
Boyle's Law - ANSWERSStates that gas volume is inversely proportional to pressure.
Alveolar Ventilation Rate - ANSWERSA better indication of how much fresh air reaches
the alveoli.
Alveolar Ventilation Rate - ANSWERSVentilation rate x (Tidal volume - Dead space
volume)
Function of the Respiratory System - ANSWERSGas exchange between the
atmosphere and the blood.
Function of the Respiratory System - ANSWERSHomeostatic regulation of body pH.
Function of the Respiratory System - ANSWERSProtection from inhaled pathogens and
irritating substances.
Function of the Respiratory System - ANSWERSVocalization.
