Question

Chemoreceptors located in the carotid bodies and aortic arch sense minute changes in the ______ and send signals to the respiratory centers via the _______________ nerves.

1) PaO₂, vagus and intercostal
2) PaCO₂, glossopharyngeal and vagus
3) PaCO₂, phrenic and glossopharyngeal
4) PaO₂, hypoglossal, vagus, and intercostal

Answer 1

Chemoreceptors in the carotid bodies and aortic arch sense PaCO₂ and send signals to the respiratory centers through the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves, which refers to option 2.

Step-by-step explanation:

The chemoreceptors located in the carotid bodies and aortic arch are sensitive to changes in blood conditions, particularly the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Specifically, they sense changes in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂) and relay signals concerning these changes to the respiratory centers in the brain. These signals are transmitted via specific cranial nerves.

The correct option that completes the statement is: Chemoreceptors located in the carotid bodies and aortic arch sense minute changes in the PaCO₂ and send signals to the respiratory centers via the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves. Therefore, the answer to the question is option 2.