Question

Surfactant

(A) protest the surface of the lungs
(B) phagocytizes small particulates
(C) Replaces mucus in the alveoli
(D) helps prevent the alveoli from collapsing
(E) is not found in healthy lung tissue

Answer 1

Surfactant is a complex mixture of phospholipids and lipoproteins that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing alveolar collapse.

Step-by-step explanation:

Surfactant is a complex mixture of phospholipids and lipoproteins that works to reduce the surface tension that exists between the alveoli tissue and the air found within the alveoli. By lowering the surface tension of the alveolar fluid, it reduces the tendency of alveoli to collapse. Surfactant is important for preventing collapse of small alveoli relative to large alveoli.