Increasing the alveolar ventilation rate will Group of answer choices increase the partial pressure of oxygen in the alveoli. decrease the rate of oxygen diffusion from the alveoli to the blood. increase the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the alveoli. decrease the rate of carbon dioxide diffusion from the blood to the alveoli. have no effect on either the partial pressure or diffusion rate of gases.

Alveolar Ventilation rate is the rate of air flow in the alveoli of the lung during normal breathing. It is measured in milliliters of air per minute (mL/min). The alveolar ventilation rate is an important factor in determining the concentrations (partial pressures) of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the functioning alveoli.

A high rate of alveolar ventilation, would result in a rapid influx of oxygen-rich air and efflux carbon dioxide-filled air from the alveoli. This ultimately results in an increase in the concentration of oxygen and a decrease in the concentration of carbon dioxide within the alveoli.

Effects of alveolar ventilation on partial pressures of alveolar carbon dioxide and oxygen (PACO₂ and PAO₂)

If the alveolar ventilation rate is increased (and carbon dioxide production is unchanged), then the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the alveoli, PACO₂ will decrease.

If the alveolar ventilation rate increases, then the partial pressure of oxygen in the alveoli, PAO₂ will increase.