Final answer:
Sequential additions of surfactant to the lung system sequentially decrease the surface tension in the alveoli, facilitating easier inflation and preventing collapse, especially important for newborns prone to respiratory distress syndrome.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sequential additions of surfactant change the lung system by sequentially decreasing surface tension. This is because the surfactant acts like a detergent, reducing the surface tension within the alveoli, making it easier for them to inflate during breathing processes and preventing their collapse during exhalation. Additionally, the unique tension change property of surfactants helps to ensure that small alveoli do not collapse and large alveoli are prevented from overexpanding. This tension change is not shared by ordinary detergents, which simply lower surface tension without the regulatory effect.
Pulmonary diseases can affect gas exchange by altering lung compliance (elasticity of the lung) and resistance (obstruction within the airways). A higher lung compliance means the lungs can stretch more, allowing for a greater volume and lower internal air pressure, which facilitates better airflow and gas exchange.
Surfactant is particularly important for newborns, as a lack of it can lead to respiratory distress syndrome. This is because, without adequate surfactant, their lungs require more effort to inflate, complicating their breathing at birth.