Multiple choice

What happens to the breathing rate, if the CO2 concentration in the blood increases?

  1. Increases

  2. Decreases

  3. Stops

  4. Remains unaffected
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A Correct answer
Explanation

Increased CO2 concentration in blood is detected by chemoreceptors in the medulla and carotid bodies, which signal the respiratory center to increase breathing rate. This enhanced ventilation helps eliminate excess CO2 and restore normal blood pH. This is a negative feedback mechanism - elevated CO2 triggers increased breathing to reduce it back to normal levels.

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