Under ordinary circumstances, the inflation reflex is initiated by:

a. Noxious chemicals

b. The ventral respiratory group

c. Overinflation of the alveoli and bronchioles

d. The pontine respiratory centers

More than one choice may apply.

During inspiration, intrapulmonary pressure is

a. Greater than atmospheric pressure

b. Less than atmospheric pressure

c. Greater than intrapleural pressure

d. Less than intrapleural pressure

More than one choice may apply.

Which of the following changes will accompany the loss of lung elasticity associated with aging?

a. Increase in tidal volume

b. Increase in inspiratory reserve volume

c. Increase in residual volume

d. Increase in vital capacity

A member of the 'Blues' gang was rushed into an emergency room after receiving a knife wound in the left side of his thorax. The diagnosis was pneumothorax and a collapsed lung. Explain exactly

Why the lung collapsed?

Why only one lung (not both) collapsed?

When the inspiratory muscles contract:

a. The size of the thoracic cavity increases in diameter

b. The size of the thoracic cavity increases in length

c. The volume of the thoracic cavity decreases

d. The size of the thoracic cavity increases in both length and diameter