Alveoli Flashcards
1
Q
What is included in the alveolar fluid
A
Surfactant which is a complex mixture of fatty substances
2
Q
What is the function of surfactant
A
Lowers the surface tension of alveolar fluid which reduces the tendency of alveoli to collapse and thus maintain their patency prevents them from collapsing with every expiration
3
Q
Where is the actual site of gas exchange in the respiratory system
A
Alveoli
4
Q
The exchanges of respiratory gases across the alveolar and capillary walls occur by
A
Diffusion which together form the respiratory membrane ( air-blood barrier)
5
Q
Extending from the alveolar air space to blood plasma the respiratory membrane consists of
A
Four layers
6
Q
The walls of alveoli consist of two types of cells with one type of cells secreting
A
Alveolar fluid
