Question

Interpret data to determine how human individuals respond to changes in altitude (or other respiratory challenge).

a) Increased respiratory rate at high altitude; decreased rate at low altitude
b) No correlation between altitude and respiratory rate
c) Decreased respiratory rate at high altitude; increased rate at low altitude
d) Respiratory rate unaffected by changes in altitude

Answer 1

At high altitudes, human individuals increase their respiratory rate and decrease the volume of air per breath due to lower oxygen levels, a process known as acclimatization.

Step-by-step explanation:

Human individuals respond to changes in altitude, such as high altitudes, by increasing their respiratory rate and decreasing the volume of air per breath. This happens because at high altitudes, the atmospheric pressure is lower, and the oxygen concentration decreases, leading to a condition called hypoxia.

To compensate for lower oxygen levels, the body increases the respiratory rate to increase oxygen intake and circulation of oxygen-carrying erythrocytes. This physiological adaptation is known as acclimatization.

As a result, an increase in altitude correlates with an increased respiratory rate and decreased volume of air per breath, aligning with option (a) from the question provided. Conversely, at low altitudes, where oxygen availability is higher, there might be a natural decrease in respiratory rate.