Oxygen Gas and Human Respiration

Recommended for grades 6–12.

Figure from experiment 30 from Biology with Vernier

Introduction

The process of breathing accomplishes two important tasks for the body. During inhalation, oxygen-rich air is brought into your lungs. During exhalation, air depleted in oxygen and rich in carbon dioxide is forced out. Oxygen is then transported to the cells where it is used in the process of respiration, yielding carbon dioxide as a product.

${{\text{C}}_{\text{6}}}{{\text{H}}_{{\text{12}}}}{{\text{O}}_{\text{6}}}{\text{ + 6 }}{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}} \to {\text{6 C}}{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}}{\text{ + 6 }}{{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}}{\text{O + energy}}$ ${\text{glucose + oxygen}} \to {\text{carbon dioxide + water}}$

In this experiment, you will determine what factors affect how long you can hold your breath. You will be tested under two different conditions. The first condition is normal breathing. The second condition is immediately following hyperventilation. Hyperventilation is when your breathing rate is greater than what is necessary for proper exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. This will be achieved by a period of rapid breathing prior to holding your breath.

Objectives

In this experiment, you will

Use an O₂ Gas Sensor to determine residual oxygen levels in exhaled air.
Evaluate how internal O₂ and CO₂ concentrations influence breathing patterns.

Sensors and Equipment

This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):

O₂ Gas Sensor

Additional Requirements

You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?

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The student-version preview includes:

Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
List of materials and equipment

Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.

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