Chapter 11, Problem 4Q

Summary Introduction

To review:

(a.) The structure of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine.

(b.)The reason for the surfactant in reducing the surface tension considering the general structure of phospholipid.

Introduction:

The dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine is a compound when secreted into the lung alveoli reduces the surface tension. The surface tension is responsible for the elastic property of the liquid. Henc, eipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine is considered as a surface active agent. The surface tension reduction helps the alveolar sac not to collapse.