Which one of the following statements is correct concerning the purpose of the surfactant secreted by the alveoli in the lungs?
(A) The surfactant increases the surface tension in the mucouscoating the alveoli, helping them expand.
(B) The surfactant decreases the surface tension in the mucouscoating the alveoli, allowing them to expand for a smaller pressure difference.
(C) The surfactant prevents air in the alveoli from leaking intothe surrounding tissue.
(D) The surfactant acts as a chemical catalyst for the exchange ofoxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs.
(E) The surfactant acts as a ‘glue’ to attach the capillaries to the alveoli.