Question

If, during inhalation, the airways are constricted but the volume of the lungs increases by a normal amount, which of the following statements is most likely true?

A. The lungs have low compliance.
B. The pressure inside the lungs is more negative than normal.
C. Atmospheric pressure is higher than normal.
D. It took an increased amount of time for the lungs to fill.

Answer 1

If, during inhalation, the airways are constricted but the volume of the lungs increases by a normal amount, the most likely true statement is that the lungs have low compliance. Correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

A. The lungs have low compliance.

Compliance refers to the ability of the lungs to stretch and expand when subjected to pressure changes. When the airways are constricted but the volume of the lungs increases by a normal amount, it suggests that the lungs have low compliance. This means that the lung tissue is not able to stretch easily, resulting in a decrease in the ability to increase lung volume despite the pressure changes.