What term refers to a whistling or snoring sound heard during chest auscultation due to partially obstructed air channels?

The correct term for a whistling or snoring sound heard during chest auscultation due to partially obstructed air channels is "rhonchi." This term specifically describes a continuous low-pitched sound that often resembles a snoring or rattling noise. Rhonchi are typically associated with the presence of mucus in the airways and are usually heard during expiration.

Rhonchi are different from wheezes, which are high-pitched and typically indicate narrowing of the airways, such as in asthma or bronchospasm. In contrast, stridor is a high-pitched, whistling sound primarily heard during inhalation and indicates upper airway obstruction, such as in cases involving swelling or foreign bodies.

The term "rhonchus" refers to the singular form of rhonchi and would not be used to describe the multiple sounds encountered during auscultation. Hence, "rhonchi" is the most accurate term to use in the context of this question.