Question

How does maximal oxygen consumption reflect maximal cardiac output?

a) Maximal oxygen consumption is directly proportional to maximal cardiac output
b) Maximal oxygen consumption is inversely proportional to maximal cardiac output
c) Maximal oxygen consumption is unrelated to maximal cardiac output
d) Maximal cardiac output is solely determined by the individual's weight.

Answer 1

Maximal oxygen consumption is directly proportional to maximal cardiac output.

Step-by-step explanation:

Maximal oxygen consumption, also known as VO2 max, is a measure of the maximum amount of oxygen that a person can use during intense exercise. It reflects the body's ability to transport and use oxygen efficiently.

Maximal cardiac output, on the other hand, is the maximum amount of blood that the heart can pump in a given time. It is determined by multiplying the heart rate (number of heartbeats per minute) by the stroke volume (amount of blood pumped with each heartbeat).

Therefore, maximal oxygen consumption is directly proportional to maximal cardiac output. When a person exercises at a high intensity, their oxygen demand increases, and so does the cardiac output to deliver more oxygen to the working muscles.