Final answer:
The average breathing rate for an adult is around 12-15 breaths per minute. Alveolar ventilation prevents carbon dioxide buildup in the lungs. Children have higher respiratory rates and it decreases as they grow.
Step-by-step explanation:
The average breathing rate for an adult (breaths per minute) is approximately 12-15 breaths/minute under non-exertion conditions.
The respiratory rate contributes to the alveolar ventilation, which prevents carbon dioxide buildup in the alveoli.
In comparison, a child under 1 year of age has a higher respiratory rate (30-60 breaths/minute), but by adolescence, the normal respiratory rate is similar to that of adults (12-18 breaths/minute).