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Which chemoreceptors detect and respond to acute changes to PCO2 and which ones respond to long term PCO2 changes?

User Spyro
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Final answer:

Peripheral chemoreceptors located in the carotid arteries and aorta quickly respond to acute changes in PCO2 levels by signaling the brain to adjust respiratory rate, whereas central chemoreceptors in the medulla oblongata monitor the pH of CSF and manage long-term respiratory rate adjustments in response to sustained PCO2 level changes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The chemoreceptors that detect and respond to acute changes in PCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) are known as peripheral chemoreceptors. These peripheral chemoreceptors are located in the walls of the aorta and carotid arteries. When they sense high levels of CO2, they quickly stimulate the brain to adjust the respiratory rate to normalize CO2 levels.

On the other hand, the chemoreceptors that respond to long-term changes in PCO2 are the central chemoreceptors. These central chemoreceptors are found in the brain, specifically near the medulla oblongata. They monitor the pH of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is influenced by CO2 levels, and adjust the respiratory rate over a longer period to maintain pH balance.

In summary, peripheral chemoreceptors provide immediate responses to changes in CO2 levels, while central chemoreceptors are involved in the regulation of respiratory rate over a longer term in response to sustained changes in PCO2.

User Maximilian
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