Final answer:
Carbon dioxide levels directly influence breathing rate due to the body's regulation through chemoreceptors. An increase in CO2, especially during exercise, leads to faster breathing and higher pulse rate to meet the body's demands for oxygen delivery and waste removal.
Step-by-step explanation:
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a waste product of cellular respiration and affects your pulse rate indirectly by influencing the respiratory rate. As activity levels of the body increase, cells consume more oxygen and produce CO2. High levels of CO2 in the blood are detected by chemoreceptors, signaling the brain to increase the breathing rate, which in turn can accelerate the pulse rate to meet the metabolic demands of the body. The kidneys also play a role in removing waste other than CO2 from the blood, highlighting the integrated nature of bodily systems in managing waste.
The chemical reactions in the lungs help in regulating levels of CO2 and carbonic acid when blood passes through the lung's pulmonary capillaries. By increasing respiration, the body ensures that excess CO2 is exhaled, preventing acidosis. This increased respiratory effort, upon exercising or during any strenuous activities, can lead to an increase in pulse rate as the body tries to quickly supply oxygen and remove CO2.
In conclusion, CO2 levels are closely monitored by the brain. To maintain blood gas homeostasis and pH balance, CO2 concentrations guide the adjustment of breathing rate. This, in turn, affects the cardiovascular system, as it works toward ensuring proper oxygen delivery and waste removal, impacting pulse rate accordingly.