If a patient who generates an intrapleural pressure of -4 mmHg to inhale 450 mL experiences inflammation and bronchospasm that reduce the radius of the bronchial airways to one-half of their original size,what pressure must the patient generate to inhale the same tidal volume?
A) 64 mm Hg
B) 48 mm Hg
C) 20 mm Hg
D) 16 mm Hg

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Poiseuille's Law, resistance to airflow is inversely proportional to the fourth power of the radius of the airways. If the radius is halved, resistance increases by 16 times. Therefore, the pressure required to maintain the same airflow must also increase by 16 times, resulting in a pressure of 64 mmHg.

If a Patient Who Generates an Intrapleural Pressure of -4