Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

22. The Respiratory System

Pressure in the Lungs and Pleural Cavity

Anatomy & Physiology

22. The Respiratory System

Pressure in the Lungs and Pleural Cavity

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Multiple Choice

Which pressure actually keeps the lungs from collapsing?

Atmospheric pressure

Intrapleural pressure

Intrapulmonary pressure

Transpulmonary pressure

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of lung pressures: The lungs are surrounded by the pleural cavity, which contains a thin layer of fluid. The pressure within this cavity is called intrapleural pressure, and it plays a critical role in preventing lung collapse.

Define intrapleural pressure: Intrapleural pressure is the pressure within the pleural cavity. It is typically negative relative to atmospheric pressure, which helps keep the lungs expanded against the chest wall.

Compare intrapleural pressure to other pressures: Atmospheric pressure is the pressure exerted by the air outside the body. Intrapulmonary pressure is the pressure within the alveoli of the lungs, which fluctuates during breathing. Transpulmonary pressure is the difference between intrapulmonary pressure and intrapleural pressure, and it determines the degree of lung expansion.

Explain why intrapleural pressure prevents lung collapse: The negative intrapleural pressure creates a suction effect that keeps the lungs adhered to the chest wall. If this pressure becomes equal to atmospheric pressure (e.g., due to injury), the lungs may collapse, a condition known as pneumothorax.

Summarize the role of intrapleural pressure: Intrapleural pressure is the key pressure that prevents lung collapse by maintaining the negative pressure gradient between the pleural cavity and the lungs, ensuring the lungs remain expanded during respiration.