What happens to pulmonary capillaries during alveolar expansion (inspiration)?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: They are stretched and their resistance may increase
As the alveoli expand, the capillaries within the septa are stretched. This physical change can alter the resistance to blood flow through the alveolar capillary bed depending on the lung volume.
Keep practicing
More Pulmonary Capillaries questions
- What provides the primary force for the movement of gases across the pulmonary capillary wall?
- The absence of which structure in pulmonary capillaries distinguishes them from those in the kidneys or small intestine?
- Under electron microscopy, the cytoplasm of the pulmonary capillary endothelial cell appears:
- What is the primary source of blood for the pulmonary capillary beds involved in gas exchange?
- Leukocytes (WBCs) can sometimes be found 'marginally' in pulmonary capillaries. This refers to:
- Which type of capillary is most characteristic of the pulmonary alveolar walls?