MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #4328

A person inhales helium, and their voice becomes higher pitched. What occurs in the lungs to cause this change?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #4328

  1. Question 1

    Q1. A person inhales helium, and their voice becomes higher pitched. What occurs in the lungs to cause this change?

    • A) Increased partial pressure of oxygen
    • B) Decreased viscosity of air
    • C) Increased solubility of helium in blood
    • D) Swelling of vocal cords

    Answer: Increased solubility of helium in blood

    Explanation: Increased solubility of helium in blood causes diffusion into vocal cords, reducing their mass and tension, resulting in a higher pitched voice.