Which of the following is most responsible for keeping the lung surface and the thoracic wall from separating?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Subatmospheric intrapleural pressure is the pressure within the space between the lung surface and the thoracic wall. It is typically about 4 mmHg less than atmospheric pressure, which creates a suction force that helps keep the two surfaces together. This pressure difference is maintained by the opposing forces of the lungs' natural tendency to recoil inward and the chest wall's tendency to expand outward. Without this negative intrapleural pressure, the lung would collapse and the chest wall would expand, making it difficult to breathe.

Which of the Following Is Most Responsible for Keeping the Lung