Final answer:
Arterial PCO2 is the most important determinant of ventilatory rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most important determinant of ventilatory rate is Arterial PCO2. Changes in arterial PCO2 levels are sensed by chemoreceptors in the brain and blood vessels, which then stimulate adjustments in the respiratory rate. A rise in carbon dioxide levels in the blood leads to an increase in respiratory rate, while a decline in carbon dioxide levels leads to a decrease in respiratory rate.