Final answer:
The alveolar pores are called Pores of Kohn which are essential for maintaining equal air pressure throughout the lungs and facilitating gas exchanges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The alveolar pores are small openings that allow airflow between neighboring alveoli, which are the small, grape-like sacs in the lungs that are responsible for gas exchange. The correct name for the alveolar pores is Pores of Kohn. These pores are crucial as they help maintain equal air pressure throughout the alveoli and lung, facilitating efficient gas exchange.
An alveolus is approximately 200 μm in diameter with elastic walls that allow it to stretch during air intake, significantly increasing the surface area available for gas exchange. Alveoli are connected to their neighbors by alveolar pores, ensuring this necessary balance. Additionally, the alveolar macrophage is an immune system cell of the alveolus that removes debris and pathogens, further protecting the respiratory system.
Lastly, the alveolar duct is a tube composed of smooth muscle and connective tissue, which opens into a cluster of alveoli, known as an alveolar sac, further enhancing the breath-to-blood gas exchange process.