**Core Concept**
Peripheral chemoreceptors, located in the carotid and aortic bodies, play a crucial role in detecting changes in the chemical composition of the blood, particularly in response to hypoxia. These receptors are sensitive to decreases in oxygen levels, which triggers a response to increase ventilation and restore normal oxygen levels.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the mechanism of peripheral chemoreceptors responding to hypoxia. In the presence of low oxygen levels, the peripheral chemoreceptors are stimulated by the increase in the activity of the enzyme **carbonic anhydrase**, which catalyzes the reaction between carbon dioxide and water to form carbonic acid, which then dissociates into hydrogen ions and bicarbonate ions. The increase in hydrogen ions (acidosis) stimulates the peripheral chemoreceptors. Additionally, the increased hydrogen ions also stimulate the enzyme **sodium-potassium ATPase**, which leads to an increase in sodium ions, which in turn activates the **stretch receptors** in the carotid and aortic bodies, further stimulating the peripheral chemoreceptors.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because peripheral chemoreceptors are not primarily sensitive to changes in pH or carbon dioxide levels, although they can be stimulated by these changes indirectly.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because peripheral chemoreceptors are not sensitive to changes in temperature or glucose levels.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect because peripheral chemoreceptors are not sensitive to changes in potassium levels.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Peripheral chemoreceptors are essential for detecting hypoxia and triggering a response to increase ventilation. However, they can be overwhelmed by high levels of carbon dioxide, which can lead to a condition known as **respiratory alkalosis**.

**Correct Answer:** D