Robert decides to go for a run when he gets home from school. As he begins running, his breathing rate starts to increase. What are the mechanisms that cause his breathing rate to increase?

A. When carbon dioxide levels in the blood decrease, the respiratory center sends signals to the alveoli to increase the volume that they expand.

B. When oxygen levels in the blood decrease, the respiratory center sends signals to the diaphragm to increase the rate at which it contracts and relaxes.

C. The respiratory control center senses the need for more oxygen, which causes the trachea to push and pull air more forcefully.

D. The diaphragm senses the need for more oxygen, which causes it to expand and contract more quickly in order to inflate and deflate the lungs.

Answer: B. When oxygen levels in the blood decrease, the respiratory center sends signals to the diaphragm to increase the rate at which it contracts and relaxes.

Explanation:

According to the given situation, as it is already mentioned that Robert runs before going home from school. This physical activity is likely to increase the breathing rate. The increase in breathing rate is likely to increase the demand of oxygen in the body. With the decrease in concentration of the oxygen in the blood the respiratory system in the body will get activated. The respiratory system will send signals to the diaphragm below the lungs to expand and contract at a faster rate so as to admit more amount of oxygenated air and distribute it at a faster rate.