Two opposing mechanisms determine alveolar expansion: ________ leads to alveolar expansion, while ________ opposes alveolar expansion.
A) lung recoil; positive pleural pressure
B) positive pleural pressure; lung recoil
C) lung recoil; negative pleural pressure
D) negative pleural pressure; lung recoil

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Negative pleural pressure leads to alveolar expansion by creating a sub-atmospheric pressure that helps draw air into the alveoli. Lung recoil, the elastic recoil forces of the lung tissues, opposes this expansion by pushing air out.

Two Opposing Mechanisms Determine Alveolar Expansion: ________ Leads to Alveolar