Which of the following creates an adhesive force that prevents separation of the parietal and visceral pleurae during ventilation?

negative intrapulmonary pressure
negative intrapleural pressure
alveolar fluid surface tension
lung elasticity

Negative intrapleural pressure is the correct answer

Explanation:

Intrapleural pressure is more subatmospheric in the uppermost part of the thorax than in the lowermost parts in the standing horse.

Air moves from a region of higher pressure to one of lower pressure.  Therefore, for air to be moved into or out of the lungs, a pressure difference between the atmosphere and the alveoli must be established. If there is no pressure difference, no airflow will occur.

Under normal circumstances, inspiration is accomplished by causing alveolar pressure to fall below atmospheric pressure. When the mechanics of breathing are being discussed, atmospheric pressure is conventionally referred to as 0 cm H2O, so lowering alveolar pressure below atmospheric pressure is known as negative-pressure breathing.