When the Radius of the Bronchial Airways Decreases During Exhalation

question 29

Multiple Choice

When the radius of the bronchial airways decreases during exhalation, what change must occur to maintain a constant gas flow?

• A) The transthoracic pressure must remain constant
• B) The transthoracic pressure must vary inversely with the second power of the radius
• C) The transthoracic pressure must vary directly with the fourth power of the radius
• D) The transthoracic pressure must vary inversely with the fourth power of the radius

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Definitions:

Tympanic Membrane

Also known as the eardrum, a thin membrane that vibrates in response to sound waves, initiating the process of hearing.

Malleus

A small bone in the middle ear that transmits sound vibrations from the tympanic membrane to the inner ear.

Semicircular Canals

Three fluid-filled tubes in the inner ear that help maintain balance by detecting rotations of the head.

Astigmatism

An imperfection in the curvature of the eye's cornea or lens, leading to blurred or distorted vision.