Respiratory Physiology Quiz

What is the tidal volume (VT)?

• The volume remaining in the lungs after maximal expiration

• The volume that can be inspired over the tidal volume

• The volume that can be expired after a tidal volume

• The volume inspired or expired with each normal breath

Which lung volume cannot be measured by spirometry?

• Residual volume (RV)

• Tidal volume (VT)

• Inspiratory reserve volume (IRV)

• Expiratory reserve volume (ERV)

What is the equation for calculating physiologic dead space (VD)?

• VD = (VT - VD) × breaths/min

• VD = VT × breaths/min

• VD = VT + ERV

• VD = VT × (PaCO2 - PeCO2) / PaCO2

What is the functional residual capacity (FRC)?

• The sum of tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, and expiratory reserve volume

• The volume in the lungs after a maximal inspiration

• The volume remaining in the lungs after a tidal volume is expired

• The sum of tidal volume and inspiratory reserve volume

In obstructive lung disease, what happens to FEV1/FVC ratio?

• It increases

• It decreases

• It remains the same

• It becomes zero

What is the primary muscle for inspiration?

• External intercostals

• Internal intercostals

• Abdominal muscles

• Diaphragm

What does compliance of the respiratory system describe?

• The ability to resist airflow

• The change in volume for a given change in pressure

• The total lung capacity

• The volume of air that can be forcibly expired

What is the effect of surfactant on alveoli?

• Increases surface tension

• Decreases compliance

• Prevents small alveoli from collapsing

• Increases collapsing pressure

What is the primary site of airway resistance?

• Trachea

• Medium-sized bronchi

• Smallest airways

• Alveoli

What happens to intrapleural pressure during inspiration?

• It becomes positive

• It remains the same

• It becomes more negative

• It increases slightly