Oxygen Gas and Human Respiration
Experiment #19 from Agricultural Science with Vernier
- Subject
- Agricultural Science
Introduction
The process of breathing accomplishes two important tasks for the body. During inhalation, oxygen-rich air is brought into your lungs. During exhalation, air depleted in oxygen and rich in carbon dioxide is forced out. Oxygen is then transported to the cells where it is used in the process of respiration, yielding carbon dioxide as a product.
Gas exchange takes place in the lungs at the membrane between the alveoli and the pulmonary capillaries. It is here that oxygen diffuses into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide diffuses out. Under normal circumstances, there is an equilibrium between the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Several mechanisms are involved in maintaining this balance. One such mechanism involves chemoreceptors. These specialized cells respond to changes in carbon dioxide, oxygen and H+ concentrations and influence the body’s ventilation patterns to maintain the proper balance of blood gases.
In this experiment, you will determine what factors affect how long you can hold your breath. You will be tested under two different conditions. The first condition is normal breathing. The second condition is immediately following hyperventilation. Hyperventilation is when your breathing rate is greater than what is necessary for proper exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. This will be achieved by a period of rapid breathing prior to holding your breath.
Objectives
- Use an O2 gas sensor to determine residual oxygen levels in exhaled air.
- Evaluate how internal O2 and CO2 concentrations influence breathing patterns.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment features the following sensors and equipment. Additional equipment may be required.
Option 1
Option 2
Ready to Experiment?
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This experiment is #19 of Agricultural Science with Vernier. The experiment in the book includes student instructions as well as instructor information for set up, helpful hints, and sample graphs and data.
