How does the body respond to low oxygen levels?

The body responds to low oxygen levels primarily by increasing the respiratory rate and depth. This physiological reaction aims to enhance the intake of oxygen to meet the body's demands. When oxygen levels drop, sensors in the body, particularly in the carotid arteries, detect this change and signal the brain to initiate a response.

Increased respiratory rate elevates the number of breaths taken per minute, while deeper breaths allow more oxygen to enter the lungs with each breath. This ensures that more oxygen is available for diffusion into the bloodstream, thereby helping to restore adequate oxygen levels in the tissues and organs.

This response is crucial for maintaining cellular respiration, where cells require oxygen to produce energy. By enhancing oxygen uptake, the body can counteract the effects of hypoxia (low oxygen availability) and support vital functions. The other options do not effectively address the need for increased oxygen under low oxygen conditions, as they either reduce bodily functions or focus on unrelated processes.