Question 1: Briefly describe the process of breathing and the role of the diaphragm.

Answer: Breathing is the process of inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide. The diaphragm contracts to create a vacuum that pulls air into the lungs during inhalation and relaxes during exhalation.

Question 1: Define tidal volume in the context of lung capacity.

Answer: Tidal volume is the amount of air inhaled or exhaled during normal resting breathing.

Question 2: Explain how the diaphragm and intercostal muscles work together during inhalation.

Answer: During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, while the intercostal muscles contract to lift the ribs outward, enlarging the thoracic cavity and allowing air to flow into the lungs.

Question 1: If a person’s tidal volume is 500 mL and their respiratory rate is 12 breaths per minute, calculate their minute ventilation in liters per minute. (1 L = 1000 mL)

Answer: 6 liters per minute

Question 1: Describe a simple experiment to measure a person’s respiratory rate at rest. Include variables to control and safety precautions.

Answer: Measure the number of breaths taken in one minute while the person is at rest. Control variables include the environment’s temperature and the person's activity level beforehand. Ensure the person is comfortable and calm to avoid abnormal readings.

Question 1: A group of students recorded their resting respiratory rates: 15, 18, 16, 14, and 17 breaths per minute. Calculate the average respiratory rate and suggest possible factors affecting the variation.

Answer: The average is (15 + 18 + 16 + 14 + 17) / 5 = 16 breaths per minute. Factors affecting variation include activity level before measurement, emotional state, or measurement timing.

Question 1: Explain how the process of inhalation and exhalation is controlled by the nervous system. Include the role of the medulla oblongata.

Answer: The medulla oblongata in the brainstem controls breathing by sending nerve signals to the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. When carbon dioxide levels in the blood increase, the medulla responds by stimulating these muscles to contract more frequently, increasing the rate of inhalation and exhalation to expel CO2 and bring in oxygen.

Question 1: Discuss how knowledge of respiratory mechanics can assist in designing better ventilators for patients with breathing difficulties.

Answer: Understanding how the lungs and diaphragm work allows engineers to design ventilators that mimic natural breathing patterns, adjust airflow based on patient needs, and ensure safe and effective respiratory support.