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Question #46328
The Question
A mountaineer rapidly ascends to an altitude of 4,500 meters. The low atmospheric pO2 triggers hyperventilation as a primary compensatory mechanism. This rapid breathing washes out excessive CO2 from the blood. Which of the following correctly identifies the resulting acid-base imbalance and the body's subsequent compensatory alteration in hemoglobin's oxygen binding affinity?
Options
- A.
Respiratory acidosis; Increased binding affinity of hemoglobin to facilitate oxygen uptake in lungs
- B.
Respiratory alkalosis; Decreased binding affinity of hemoglobin to facilitate oxygen unloading at tissues
- C.
Metabolic alkalosis; Decreased binding affinity of hemoglobin to counteract the Bohr effect
- D.
Respiratory alkalosis; Increased binding affinity of hemoglobin to maximize oxygen saturation in the alveoli
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Dead Space Ventilation|Partial Pressure Gradient Logic|Hominid Cranial Capacity
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often confuse the immediate chemical effect of hyperventilation (alkalosis) with the long-term physiological compensation stated in NCERT (decreased binding affinity).
The trap tests the distinction between respiratory vs. metabolic disturbances, and requires the student to remember that high-altitude compensation prioritizes tissue unloading (decreased affinity) over alveolar loading.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Breathing and Exchange of Gases - Class 11 |
| Concept | Dead Space Ventilation |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |