Question

What happens to the lungs if intrapleural pressure equals or increases above atmospheric pressure?

a) inhalation
b) overinflation
c) burst
d) collapse

Answer 1

If intrapleural pressure equals or increases above atmospheric pressure, the lungs can collapse.

Step-by-step explanation:

When intrapleural pressure equals or increases above atmospheric pressure, the lungs can collapse. Normally, during inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and the intercostal muscles expand the chest cavity, resulting in a decrease in intrapleural pressure. However, if the intrapleural pressure becomes equal to or higher than atmospheric pressure, the lung tissue loses its ability to recoil, causing the lungs to collapse.