Question

What is the reason surface tension exists in the alveoli of the lungs?

Answer 1

Due to presence of Surfactants

Explanation:

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 `2:1` ratio of Lecithin: Sphingomyelin is necessary for surfactants to develop,or else the newborn baby suffers from Childhood Respiratory Distress Syndrome

In that case synthetic surfactant like Exogart can be used.