The inwardly directed force in the alveoli that must be overcome during each inspiration is elastic recoil, surface tension plays a role in opposing expansion, and lung compliance affects gas flow.
In the alveoli, the inwardly directed force that must be overcome to expand the lungs during each inspiration is elastic recoil. As air fills the lungs, the elastic recoil within the lung tissues exerts pressure back toward the interior of the lungs, facilitating the inhalation and exhalation process.
The surface tension within the alveoli, caused by water present in the lining, also plays a role in opposing the expansion of the alveoli. However, pulmonary surfactant helps to reduce this surface tension to prevent alveolar collapse.
Additionally, lung compliance, which refers to the ability of the lungs to stretch, affects gas flow. Greater lung compliance allows for more significant lung volume changes, influencing the pressure within the lungs.
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