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🔬 Biology  ·  Breathing and Exchange of Gases  ·  NEET

Carotid body peripheral chemoreceptors primarily respond to:

  • A Fluctuations in arterial blood pressure sensed via stretch receptors
  • B Low arterial PO2 (hypoxia), high PCO2, and low pH
  • C Core body temperature shifts relayed from the hypothalamus
  • D Circulating blood glucose concentration via glucose-sensing neurons

Correct answer: B. Low arterial PO2 (hypoxia), high PCO2, and low pH

Explanation: Carotid body (and aortic bodies): peripheral chemoreceptors sensitive to low PO2 (<60 mmHg), high PCO2, and low pH. Signal brain stem respiratory centers to increase ventilation.

Concept context

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

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