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Read Why Alveoli Stay Open
Alveoli must stay open while offering a huge thin surface for gas exchange.
NSEJS · Breathing and Exchange of Gases · 1 linked question · 100% coverage
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Alveolar Mechanics is the central idea in this question pattern. Identify the condition in the stem before applying the method below.
Study deeper: NCERT Science · Breathing and Exchange of Gases
Lower surface tension
Type II alveolar cells secrete surfactant. It lowers surface tension at the air-liquid interface and reduces the tendency of small alveoli to collapse.
OlympIQ exam lens
- ✓Surfactant lowers alveolar surface tension.
- ✓Loss of surfactant favours alveolar collapse.
OlympIQ trap
Surfactant acts inside alveoli; it does not widen the conducting airways.
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