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🔬 Biology  ·  Breathing and Exchange of Gases  ·  NEET

A decrease in blood pH (acidosis) stimulates an increase in the rate and depth of breathing mainly through:

  • A Inhibition of the pneumotaxic centre located in the pons
  • B Reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of plasma proteins
  • C Chemoreceptors signalling the medullary centre to raise ventilation
  • D Direct contraction of the diaphragm with little nervous input

Correct answer: C. Chemoreceptors signalling the medullary centre to raise ventilation

Explanation: Central and peripheral chemoreceptors detect a fall in blood pH (rise in H+/CO2) and signal the medullary respiratory centre, which increases the rate and depth of breathing to expel more CO2.

Concept context

The mechanics of breathing, lung volumes, gas transport in blood, the Bohr effect, and respiratory regulation.

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