What would be the most direct result of an individual having an inability to produce surfactant in their alveoli?
A)The alveoli would physically collapse.
B)The alveoli would be much more likely to harbor infections.
C)The alveoli would fill with fluid due to an ion transport defect.
D)Oxygen exchange with the blood would be impaired due to a thickening of the epithelium.
E)Carbon dioxide exchange with the blood would be impaired due to an inhibition of carbonic anhydrasE.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Surfactant is responsible for reducing surface tension in the alveoli, allowing them to remain open during exhalation. Without surfactant, the alveoli would collapse, leading to decreased gas exchange.

Answer: B
 Surfactant also plays a crucial role in preventing infection by acting as a barrier between the alveoli and external pathogens. Without surfactant, the alveoli would have a higher risk of infections.

Answer: C, D, and E are incorrect choices that are not directly related to the inability to produce surfactant.

What Would Be the Most Direct Result of an Individual