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HMS, BM EQ-Bank 60 MC

During high-intensity exercise, what best explains why an athlete's breathing rate increases?

  1. To increase tidal volume in the pulmonary arteries
  2. To decrease carbon dioxide levels in the alveoli
  3. To meet increased oxygen demands of working muscles
  4. To reduce blood flow through the pulmonary circuit
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Consider Option C:  To meet increased oxygen demands of working muscles

  • Breathing rate increases primarily to meet the increased oxygen demands of working muscles during intense exercise

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Tidal volume refers to air volume, not blood in pulmonary arteries
  • B is incorrect: While CO2 removal increases, this is a result not the primary reason
  • D is incorrect: Blood flow through pulmonary circuit actually increases during exercise