Question

when moving to a high altitude, such as denver, how does your body compensate for the decreased oxygen partial pressure? a.) the decreased oxygen partial pressure stimulates the liver to make epo, which the kidneys convert from an inactive to an active form. the epo acts on the bone marrow to make more red blood cells. b.) the decreased oxygen partial pressure stimulates the kidneys to secrete epo, which acts on the lungs to increase the rate and depth of breathing. c.) the decreased oxygen partial pressure stimulates the kidneys to secrete epo, which acts on the bone marrow to make more red blood cells.

Explanation:

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in red blood cell production. The kidneys are the primary site of EPO secretion in response to low oxygen levels (hypoxia), such as those experienced at high altitudes. EPO then acts on the bone marrow to stimulate the production of more red blood cells, which increases the oxygen - carrying capacity of the blood.

• Option a is incorrect because the liver is not the primary site of EPO production in response to low oxygen partial pressure. The kidneys are the main producers.
• Option b is incorrect because EPO does not act on the lungs to increase the rate and depth of breathing. Its main target is the bone marrow.

Answer:

c. The decreased oxygen partial pressure stimulates the kidneys to secrete EPO, which acts on the bone marrow to make more red blood cells.