Question

what is the role of co2 in respiration ?

Answer 1

Breathing exchanges oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the environment. Carbon Dioxide (C02) is essentially a waste product of the body but is important as a hameostatic feedback mechanism. The level of C02 in the blood is the most important influence on the regulation of ventilation. The blood level of C02 acts directly on the respiratory centres in the medulla and is a major influence on cerebro‑spinal fluid pH. An increase in C02 level leads to an increase in ventilation by stimulating phrenic and intercostal nerves that activate the respiratory muscles. In discussing the importance of carbon dioxide in the control of breathing this essay will first discuss the mechanics of breathing, the muscles involved and their control by the medulla and pons. It will also note that the influence of carbon dioxide during exercise is not consistent with that during rest.