Chapter 17, Problem 25RQ

a.

Summary Introduction

To determine: Whether the pulmonary surfactant will increase, decrease, or not change the work required for breathing.

Introduction: The pulmonary surfactant is a surface-active lipoprotein complex, and it is formed by type II alveolar cells. Pulmonary surfactant has both hydrophobic and hydrophilic nature because it is made up of both lipids and proteins.

b.

Summary Introduction

To determine: Whether the pulmonary surfactant will increase, decrease, or not change lung compliance.

Introduction: Alveoli are clumped at the ends of terminal bronchioles present in the lung. Alveoli are air-filled and allow gas exchange between themselves and the blood. Type II alveolar cells are small but thick and secret a chemical known as pulmonary surfactant. The pulmonary surfactant is the mixture of proteins and lipds.

c.

Summary Introduction

To determine: Whether the pulmonary surfactant will increase, decrease, or not change the surface tension of alveoli of lungs.

Introduction: The pulmonary surfactant is the mixture of proteins and lipds and therefore it has both hydrophobic and hydrophilic nature. The pulmonary surfactant is secreted by the type II alveolar cells in the alveolar space. Type II avleolar cells are hollow and present at the ends of terminal bronchioles.