Question

The major factor that drives the acute altitude-associated decrease in VO2max is

a.inadequate pulmonary ventilation
b.inadequate pulmonary diffusion
c.inadequate alveolar PO2
d.inadequate muscle oxidative enzymes

Answer 1

The major factor that drives the acute altitude-associated decrease in VO2max is inadequate alveolar PO2.

Step-by-step explanation:

The major factor that drives the acute altitude-associated decrease in VO2max is inadequate alveolar PO2. When exposed to high altitudes, the atmospheric pressure is lower, resulting in a low partial pressure of oxygen in the air. This leads to a decrease in the amount of oxygen that crosses the respiratory membrane and enters the blood of the pulmonary capillaries. As a result, there is a lower oxygen saturation level of hemoglobin in the blood, causing a decrease in VO2max.