Final answer:
Residual volume in the lung prevents lung collapse by keeping the alveoli open and preventing the airways from collapsing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reason for having residual volume in the lung is to prevent lung collapse. The residual volume refers to the amount of air that remains in the lungs after a maximal exhalation. It helps keep the alveoli in the lungs open and prevents the airways from collapsing, allowing for continuous gas exchange.