Answer :
Hyperventilation occurs when ventilation increases excessively compared to the rate of CO2 production, leading to low blood CO2 levels and high blood pH, a condition known as respiratory alkalosis. So the correct option is (b) Ventilation increases in excess of the rate of CO₂ production.
In hyperventilation, the correct answer is Ventilation increases over the rate of CO2 production. This condition is characterized by an increased ventilation rate that leads to abnormally low blood carbon dioxide (CO2) levels and a high (alkaline) blood pH. It's different from hyperpnea, which is an increased depth and rate of ventilation to match an increased oxygen demand by the cells, as might be seen in exercise or specific diseases, without significantly altering blood oxygen or CO2 levels.
The central control of breathing in our bodies is significantly affected by CO2 levels. During hyperventilation, the elevated respiratory rate does not correspond to the cellular oxygen needs and can result in a condition known as respiratory alkalosis, whereby the pH level of the blood becomes more alkaline due to the decreased presence of CO2. So the correct option is (b) Ventilation increases in excess of the rate of CO₂ production.
