In late adults, the amount of air left in the lungs after expiration of the maximum amount of air:
a.) remains unchanged because the lungs have become accustomed to years of breathing pollution.
b.) decrease, resulting in widespread collapsing of the alveoli and impaired diffusion of gases.
c.) increases, which hampers diffusion of gases because of stagnant air that remains in the alveoli
d.) decreases, which increases diffusion in the lungs and causes an accumulation of carbon dioxide.

C.) Increases, which hampers diffusion of gases because of the stagnant air that remains in the alveoli.

Explanation:

Lungs capacity drops by 40% between ages of 20 and 80, even without disease, but can be improved with diaphragm strengthening exercises.Changes experienced in the respiratory system include and overall decrease is vital capacity,which means less air inspired and expired as well.

In addition, older adults loose elasticity in their lungs as the age, making lungs less flexible and further imparing the ability to effectively inhale and exhale.

Hence, option C) Increases, which hampers diffusion of gases because of the stagnant air that remains in the alveoli. is the right answer.