Neco Model Questions Vol1 2020 Biology Question 4

Practice essay / theory question 4 from the 2020 Neco Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination. This question covers Respiration .

Neco Model Questions Vol1 2020 Biology Essay / Theory
Topic: Respiration
Question 4 NECO_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1 • 2020 • BIOLOGY • essay

At sea level the atmospheric pressure is 760 mm Hg and the fractional concentration of inspired oxygen (FIO₂) is 0.21. The alveolar gas equation is PAO₂ = (Patm – PH₂O) × FIO₂ – (PaCO₂ / R), where PH₂O = 47 mm Hg and the respiratory quotient (R) is 0.8. An adult at rest has an arterial PCO₂ of 40 mm Hg.

Question Parts

( a )
Using the alveolar gas equation, calculate the alveolar partial pressure of oxygen (PAO₂) at sea level and at an altitude of 3 000 m where the atmospheric pressure falls to 523 mm Hg, assuming all other variables remain unchanged.
( b )
Explain how the reduction in PAO₂ at high altitude affects the overall oxygen transport from the lungs to the tissues.
( c )
During vigorous exercise at sea level, the Bohr effect causes a right‑shift of the haemoglobin‑oxygen dissociation curve. Describe this effect and discuss why it is advantageous during exercise.

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About This Question

This is Neco Model Questions Vol1 2020 Biology Question 4. It is one of the essay questions from the 2020 Neco Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination.

The question covers Respiration .

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