Control of BreathingHESI A2 cheat sheet

What sets the rate

6 key facts 5 practice questions Reviewed Oct 2026

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The Center

The medulla oblongata sets the basic rhythm
The pons smooths the transitions

The Main Driver

Rising CO₂ is the strongest stimulus to breathe
Detected as falling pH in the cerebrospinal fluid

Oxygen

Low O₂ becomes a driver only when it falls substantially

Voluntary Override

You can hold your breath, but CO₂ buildup eventually forces a breath

Key takeaway

What sets the rate

Before you read

Test yourself first: 5 questions

Question 1 of 5

Which two gases are most involved in human breathing?

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