What would happen to the alveoli if surfactant were not produced?
A)The air exchange across with blood air barrier would improve because surfactant did not block any diffusion.
B)The alveoli would become invaded by pathogens because surfactant was not there to block the pathogens.
C)The alveoli would stiffen because surfactant lubricates the alveoli to they can expand.
D)The alveoli would collect fluid because surfactant normally soaks up extra fluid and prevents it from accumulating in the lungs.
E)The alveoli would collapse because of the normally high surface tension of the water coating the alveolar surfaces.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Surfactant is responsible for reducing the surface tension of the water coating the alveoli. Without surfactant, the surface tension would be too high and the alveoli would collapse, making gas exchange impossible.

What Would Happen to the Alveoli If Surfactant Were Not