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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements accurately describes transpulmonary pressure?
A
It is the pressure difference between the intrapleural pressure and the atmospheric pressure.
B
It is the pressure difference between the atmospheric pressure and the alveolar pressure.
C
It is the pressure difference between the alveolar pressure and the intrapleural pressure.
D
It is the pressure difference between the alveolar pressure and the blood pressure in the pulmonary capillaries.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of transpulmonary pressure: Transpulmonary pressure is the difference between the alveolar pressure and the intrapleural pressure. It is crucial for keeping the lungs inflated and is a key factor in the mechanics of breathing.
Identify the pressures involved: Alveolar pressure is the pressure within the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. Intrapleural pressure is the pressure within the pleural cavity, the space between the lung and the chest wall.
Recognize the role of transpulmonary pressure: This pressure difference is essential for lung expansion during inhalation. A positive transpulmonary pressure indicates that the alveolar pressure is greater than the intrapleural pressure, allowing the lungs to expand.
Differentiate from other pressures: Atmospheric pressure is the pressure exerted by the weight of the air in the atmosphere. Blood pressure in the pulmonary capillaries is the pressure of blood within the small vessels in the lungs. Neither of these is directly involved in calculating transpulmonary pressure.
Apply the concept: To determine transpulmonary pressure, subtract the intrapleural pressure from the alveolar pressure. This can be expressed mathematically as: , where is transpulmonary pressure, is alveolar pressure, and is intrapleural pressure.