Which term describes the ability of alveoli to expand during inhalation?

The ability of alveoli to expand during inhalation is referred to as compliance. Compliance specifically measures how easily the lungs and thoracic cavity can be expanded. High compliance means that the alveoli can expand easily with a small change in pressure, which is vital for efficient breathing. In contrast, low compliance indicates that the lungs are stiff and require more effort to expand, which can lead to respiratory difficulties.

While resistance pertains to the opposition to airflow in the respiratory system, and is more associated with the airways rather than the alveoli themselves, capacity refers to the maximum amount of air that the lungs can hold. Elasticity, on the other hand, relates to the ability of the alveoli to return to their original size after being stretched. Compliance is the most accurate term to describe the ease with which the alveoli expand during inhalation, aligning directly with lung mechanics and respiratory physiology.