When pressure in the lungs drops lower than atmospheric pressure, what occurs?.
A pneumothorax forms, collapsing the lungs.
The bronchioles constrict, causing respiratory distress.
Air flows into the lungs.
Air flows out of the lungs.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is: c. Air flows into the lungs.
Choice A: A pneumothorax forms, collapsing the lungs.
A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space, the area between the lung and the chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. This condition is typically caused by trauma or a spontaneous rupture of a lung bleb, not by a drop in lung pressure below atmospheric pressure. When the pressure in the lungs drops below atmospheric pressure, it facilitates the inflow of air into the lungs, not the collapse of the lungs.
Choice B: The bronchioles constrict, causing respiratory distress.
Bronchiolar constriction, or bronchoconstriction, is a narrowing of the airways in the lungs due to the tightening of surrounding smooth muscle. This can cause respiratory distress and is commonly seen in conditions like asthma. However, this is not directly related to the pressure changes in the lungs relative to atmospheric pressure. The primary effect of a drop in lung pressure below atmospheric pressure is the inflow of air, not bronchoconstriction.
Choice C: Air flows into the lungs.
When the pressure in the lungs drops below atmospheric pressure, a pressure gradient is created that allows air to flow into the lungs. This process is known as inspiration or inhalation. The diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract to increase the volume of the thoracic cavity, thereby decreasing the pressure within the lungs relative to the outside atmosphere, causing air to rush in.
Choice D: Air flows out of the lungs.
Air flows out of the lungs, or expiration, occurs when the pressure inside the lungs exceeds atmospheric pressure. This happens when the diaphragm and intercostal muscles relax, decreasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and increasing the pressure within the lungs. This is the opposite of what happens when lung pressure drops below atmospheric pressure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While the nasopharynx does play a role in warming and moistening inspired air, this is not its primary function.
Choice B rationale:
The nasopharynx does not primarily filter dust. This function is mainly performed by the nasal cavity and the hairs within the nostrils.
Choice C rationale:
The nasopharynx provides openings for the right and left Eustachian tubes. These tubes connect the middle ear to the nasopharynx and help equalize air pressure on either side of the eardrum.
Choice D rationale:
The nasopharynx does not contain olfactory receptors responsible for the sense of smell. These receptors are located in the nasal cavity.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
hoice A rationale:
Inspired gas passes through the convoluted air passages of the nasopharynx and pharynx which generates turbulence. This turbulence increases evaporative heat exchange between the air and the mucosa. The nasal mucosa is the lining of the nasal cavity. It moistens air that is coming into the body during inhalation.
Choice B rationale:
The sphenoid is a bone located within the skull and does not directly contribute to the heating and humidification of air.
Choice C rationale:
The nasopharynx is part of the pharynx, located above the soft palate. It serves as an air passage way connecting the nasal cavity to the throat and does not directly heat or humidify the air.
Choice D rationale:
The oropharynx is also part of the pharynx, located between the soft palate and the epiglottis. It serves as a passageway for both air and food but does not directly heat or humidify the air.
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