Final answer:
For a non-breathing adult, 10-12 breaths per minute should be provided during the mouth-to-mask ventilation, aligning with the average respiratory rate for adults.
Step-by-step explanation:
When providing ventilation by the mouth-to-mask procedure for a non-breathing adult, the correct number of breaths per minute is 10-12. This rate is designed to approximate the normal respiratory rate for an adult, which, when they are not exerting themselves, is typically about 12-15 breaths per minute on average. The goal is to ensure adequate alveolar ventilation without causing overinflation of the lungs or excessive buildup of carbon dioxide in the alveoli.