12 Questions
What is the role of surface tension in the alveoli?
Create a force to maintain the smallest possible shape
How does the recoil of the chest wall contribute to lung function?
Helps to keep the lungs open
What is the function of pulmonary surfactant?
Reduces surface tension of alveoli
What happens to the forces at the end of inspiration in relation to the chest wall and lungs?
Outwards pull of chest wall is greater than inwards pull of lungs
How does hysteresis affect lung function?
Is energy not recovered during expiration
What effect does surfactant have on pulmonary compliance?
Increases pulmonary compliance
What is the main purpose of pulmonary surfactant in the lungs?
Facilitate efficient gas exchange
Which lung volume refers to the volume of air expelled with force expiration?
Expiratory reserve volume
What determines the functional residual capacity (FRC) of the lungs?
Outward spring of the rib cage and inward elastic recoil of the lungs
Which lung capacity is defined as the total volume of air from maximum inspiration to maximal expiration?
Vital capacity
What is hysteresis a measure of in lung physiology?
Surface tension in the lungs
Why is it important to understand the function of pulmonary surfactant?
To aid in efficient gas exchange
Learn about how the surface tension in alveoli contributes to maintaining their structure and how it affects the overall compliance of the respiratory system.
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