Final answer:
A poorly ventilated alveolus with normal blood flow would denote a low V/Q ratio, indicating a mismatch in ventilation and perfusion, which can compromise effective gas exchange. The correct option is C. A low V/Q ratio
Step-by-step explanation:
If a poorly ventilated alveolus is receiving normal blood flow, this scenario would represent a low V/Q ratio. In pulmonary physiology, the V/Q ratio is a measure of the efficiency and adequacy of the matching of two critical factors in air and blood flow to the alveoli: ventilation (V) and perfusion (Q).
When an alveolus is poorly ventilated but still receiving regular blood flow, ventilation is low while perfusion remains unchanged, resulting in a decreased V/Q ratio. This mismatch can lead to inadequate gas exchange and can occur in pathological conditions such as pneumonia or pulmonary edema.
These conditions decrease the effectiveness of oxygen transfer from the alveoli to the blood. The correct option is C. A low V/Q ratio