surfactant

 

Question: 41 of 70

CORRECT

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A surfactant is a chemical compound that decreases the surface tension or interfacial tension between two liquids, a liquid and a gas, or a liquid and a solid. The word surfactant is a blend of "surface-active agent",[

Which of the following is the function of surfactant in the alveoli of the lungs?

Uptake of oxygen in the alveoli

Although oxygen uptake occurs in the alveoli, oxygen uptake is not a function of surfactant.

Prevention of alveoli collapse

MY ANSWER

Surfactant prevents the collapse of alveoli in the lungs by reducing surface tension in the alveoli.

Removal of carbon dioxide in the alveoli

Although carbon dioxide removal occurs in the alveoli, carbon dioxide removal is not a function of surfactant.

Increase alveoli surface tension