Question

multiple choice question
if lactic acid builds up in the bloodstream as a result of exercise,____chemoreceptors will____the respiratory centers.
o peripheral; inhibit
o central; inhibit
o peripheral; stimulate

Explanation:

Lactic acid increases blood acidity. Peripheral chemoreceptors detect changes in blood pH (acidity). When acidity rises (due to lactic acid), peripheral chemoreceptors send signals to increase ventilation. This is a stimulatory effect on respiratory centers to get rid of more carbon dioxide (which can also affect pH) and take in more oxygen. Central chemoreceptors mainly respond to changes in cerebrospinal fluid pH (indirectly from blood - brain barrier effects of carbon dioxide, not directly to lactic acid in the bloodstream as easily as peripheral ones).

Answer:

peripheral; stimulate