Which one of the following statements is correct concerning thepurpose of the su

Question

Which one of the following statements is correct concerning thepurpose of the surfactant secreted by the alveoli in the lungs?
(A) The surfactant increases the surface tension in the mucouscoating the alveoli, helping them
expand.
(B) The surfactant decreases the surface tension in the mucouscoating the alveoli, allowing them to expand for a smaller pressuredifference.
(C) The surfactant prevents air in the alveoli from leaking intothe surrounding tissue.
(D) The surfactant acts as a chemical catalyst for the exchange ofoxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs.
(E) The surfactant acts as a ‘glue’ to attach thecapillaries to the alveoli.

Explanation / Answer

The correct answer is (B), that the purpose of the surfactant is to decrease the surface tension in the mucous.

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