Answered step by step
Verified Expert Solution
Link Copied!

Question

1 Approved Answer

The alveoli in the lungs consist of cells that secrete pulmonary surfactants. The surfactants prevent the coarsening of the alveoli and the possible collapse

image

The alveoli in the lungs consist of cells that secrete pulmonary surfactants. The surfactants prevent the coarsening of the alveoli and the possible collapse of the lung. They also help to regulate the sizes of the alveoli during breathing. Two alveoli with different radii are shown in the diagram below: Lung tissue (mostly water) Alveoli air way P external r r Inhalation: Alveoli expand Exhalation: Alveoli shrink a) Assume the alveolar radii are 0.05 and 0.07 mm towards the end of exhalation. Knowing that air flows from high to low pressures, calculate the pressure difference between the alveoli and justify why the smaller alveolus does not collapse. (Assume surface tension of alveolar wall due to surfactant is 25 mN/m) b) Some people, like heavy smokers, lack enough surfactant on the alveolar lining. What is the consequence of not having enough surfactant and why would this be a problem? (The surface tension of water is 71.99 mN/m)

Step by Step Solution

There are 3 Steps involved in it

Step: 1

Here are the explanations a To calculate the pressure difference between the alveoli we can use the law of Laplace which relates the pressure inside a spherical structure to its surface tension and ra... blur-text-image

Get Instant Access to Expert-Tailored Solutions

See step-by-step solutions with expert insights and AI powered tools for academic success

Step: 2

blur-text-image

Step: 3

blur-text-image

Document Format ( 2 attachments)

PDF file Icon
6642fba2954a1_961105.pdf

180 KBs PDF File

Word file Icon
6642fba2954a1_961105.docx

120 KBs Word File

Ace Your Homework with AI

Get the answers you need in no time with our AI-driven, step-by-step assistance

Get Started

Recommended Textbook for

College Physics Reasoning and Relationships

Authors: Nicholas Giordano

2nd edition

840058195, 9781285225340 , 978-0840058195

More Books

Students also viewed these Chemistry questions

Question

1. Describe the Coaching style of leadership.

Answered: 1 week ago