Question

multiple choice question
the central chemoreceptors in the medulla oblongata respond to _.
o hydrogen ions and carbon dioxide
o carbon dioxide only
o hydrogen ions and oxygen
o hydrogen ions only

Explanation:

Central chemoreceptors in the medulla oblongata are sensitive to changes in hydrogen ions (\(H^+\)) which are influenced by carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)) levels. When \(CO_2\) diffuses into the cerebrospinal fluid, it reacts with water (\(H_2O\)) to form carbonic acid (\(H_2CO_3\)), which then dissociates into \(H^+\) and bicarbonate (\(HCO_3^-\)). The chemoreceptors respond to the \(H^+\) (indirectly to \(CO_2\) as \(CO_2\) affects \(H^+\) levels). They do not respond to oxygen levels directly (peripheral chemoreceptors are more involved in oxygen - related responses).

Answer:

hydrogen ions and carbon dioxide