What is the purpose of surfactant that lines each alveolus?
A)gives the lungs their elasticity
B)keeps the alveoli from collapsing
C)reduces the surface tension of water
D)Both keeps the alveoli from collapsing and reduces the surface tension of water

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Surfactant is a mixture of lipids and proteins that lines each alveolus in the lungs. Its main function is to reduce the surface tension of water, which is necessary during the process of breathing. Without surfactant, the walls of adjacent alveoli would stick together due to surface tension and collapse, making gas exchange impossible. Therefore, surfactant keeps the alveoli from collapsing and reduces the surface tension of water, making it easier for oxygen to diffuse across the alveolar membranes and into the bloodstream.

What Is the Purpose of Surfactant That Lines Each Alveolus