What is the reason surface tension exists in the alveoli of the lungs?
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Surface tension exists in the lungs because of the attractive forces between liquid molecules lining the alveoli. Surface tension tends to cause alveoli to collapse.
Due to presence of Surfactants
About the Surfactants
The surfactants are chemical substances (Diethyl Lecithin Choline) produced by type II pneumocytes lining the alveoli,which helps to prevent the collapse of an alveolus by increasing its surface tension. A ratio of Lecithin: Sphingomyelin is necessary for surfactants to develop,or else the newborn baby suffers from Childhood Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
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