Question

Give the reason for low concentration of oxygen in the blood and tissues of people living at high altitude.

• A. Both low temperature and high atmospheric pressure
• B. Low temperature
• C. Low atmospheric pressure
• D. High atmospheric pressure

Hint:

People living at higher altitudes may adapt by producing more red blood cells to improve oxygen absorption.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The question asks for the reason behind the low concentration of oxygen in the blood and tissues of people living at high altitudes. Let's break down the answer step-by-step:

1. Understanding Altitude and Atmospheric Pressure: At higher altitudes, the atmospheric pressure is significantly lower than at sea level. Atmospheric pressure decreases with altitude due to the thinning of the atmosphere. This leads to fewer air molecules, including oxygen molecules, being present in a given volume of air.

2. Effect on Oxygen Concentration: The partial pressure of oxygen also decreases with altitude, meaning that there is less oxygen available to be absorbed into the bloodstream with each breath. Despite the percentage of oxygen remaining roughly the same (around 21%), the reduced atmospheric pressure means there is less total oxygen available.

3. Physiological Impact: With lower oxygen availability, the body and its tissues receive less oxygen, leading to low oxygen concentration in the blood. This condition can result in symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, and at times, altitude sickness.

Therefore, the correct explanation for the low concentration of oxygen in the blood and tissues of people living at high altitudes is due to low atmospheric pressure.

Correct Answer: Low atmospheric pressure