What is the primary function of pulmonary surfactant?

The primary function of pulmonary surfactant is to disrupt hydrogen bonds and decrease surface tension within the alveoli of the lungs. This reduction in surface tension is crucial because it prevents the alveoli from collapsing during exhalation, allowing them to remain open and maintain a larger surface area for gas exchange. By lowering surface tension, surfactant enhances the compliance of the lungs, making it easier for them to expand during inhalation. This is essential for efficient breathing and contributes significantly to overall respiratory function. The presence of surfactant is vital for maintaining the stability of the alveoli and ensuring that gas exchange, particularly oxygen and carbon dioxide, occurs effectively.