In terms of lung function, what effect does V/Q mismatch have on performance?

V/Q mismatch, or ventilation-perfusion mismatch, negatively impacts gas exchange efficiency in the lungs. This occurs when the airflow (ventilation) to a particular region of the lung does not match the blood flow (perfusion) to that area. When there is inadequate ventilation relative to perfusion, or vice versa, it can lead to reduced oxygen diffusion into the bloodstream and impaired removal of carbon dioxide from the blood.

This inefficiency significantly hampers the overall ability of the lungs to oxygenate blood effectively and remove waste gases. As a result, a person's overall gas exchange capabilities diminish, which can lead to hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels) and hypercapnia (high carbon dioxide levels) if severe.

The other options outline effects that either do not occur or are not relevant in the context of V/Q mismatch. Such mismatches do not enhance lung capacity, do not carry a neutral effect on lung function, nor do they improve lung tissue elasticity. Thus, recognizing that V/Q mismatch reduces overall gas exchange efficiency accurately captures the core issue regarding lung function associated with this phenomenon.