Final answer:
Breathing rate and pulse rate are indirect measures of cellular respiration because, during this process, cells consume oxygen and produce carbon dioxide as a byproduct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Breathing and pulse rates are related to cellular respiration, with respiratory rate indicating CO2 levels and pulse rate reflecting oxygen and nutrient demand. Chemoreceptors regulate breathing to maintain homeostasis.
The respiratory rate can be an important indicator of cellular respiration, as it may increase to expel more carbon dioxide when cellular metabolism is high. Similarly, the pulse rate can indicate the demand for oxygen and nutrients in the tissues, which is elevated during periods of increased cellular respiration.
The body regulates the respiratory rate through chemoreceptors that sense changes in CO2 levels, leading to an adjustment in breathing to maintain homeostasis. Furthermore, a pulse oximeter measures the amount of oxygen in the blood, giving insights into a person's metabolic rate.