Question

In emphysema, where do alveolar walls collapse?

a. Respiratory bronchioles
b. Alveolar ducts
c. Alveolar sacs
d. Terminal bronchioles

Answer 1

In emphysema, the alveolar walls that collapse are predominantly in the alveolar sacs, where the critical gas exchange takes place.

Step-by-step explanation:

In emphysema, the alveolar walls collapse primarily in the alveolar sacs. Alveolar ducts connect these sacs, and together they form a cluster that resembles a bunch of grapes. The alveoli within these sacs are the sites where gas exchange between the lung and blood takes place. They are made up of thin-walled parenchymal cells, usually only one cell thick, which are directly in contact with the capillaries. Emphysema leads to the destruction of these walls, reducing the surface area for gas exchange and causing breathing difficulties.