Respiratory Zone Flashcards
1
Q
Two functions of the respiratory zone
A
- exchange of gases
- production of surfactant - maintains patency of alveoli (prevents collapse)
2
Q
how thick is the epithelial layer
A
one cell thick
3
Q
how thick are the pulmonary capillaries
A
one cell thick
4
Q
what is the epithelial layer surrounded by
A
rich network of pulmonary capillaries
5
Q
what do the capillaries surrounding the epithelial layer facilitate
A
difffusion
6
Q
what size adaptation does the respiratory zone have to support function
A
large surface area
7
Q
what do other epithelial cells produce
A
surfactant
8
Q
what is detergent action
A
other epithelial cells producing surfactant
