Question

If a person suffers punctures in his chest cavity in an accident, without any damage to the lungs, its effect could lead to

• A. reduced breathing rate
• B. rapid increase in breathing rate
• C. no change in respiration
• D. cessation of breathing

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Inhalation and Exhalation is due to pressure gradient. This is difference in the pressure which causes air to flow. During inhalation negative pressure gradient and during exhalation positive pressure gradient is formed. Thus if a person suffers from punctures inside the chest cavity, the pressure gradients will not be formed and thus breathing will stop.