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The diaphragm is attached to the base of the sternum, the lower parts of the rib cage, and the spine. As the diaphragm contracts, it increases the length and diameter of the chest cavity and thus expands the lungs. The intercostal muscles help move the rib cage and thus assist in breathing.
- What is the role of the diaphragm in breathing?
- How do the intercostal muscles and diaphragm assist in inhalation and exhalation?
- What is the effect of contraction of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles?
- What are the muscles of the diaphragm?
What is the role of the diaphragm in breathing?
The diaphragm plays a critical role in the respiratory system. When you breathe in, your diaphragm contracts (tightens) and flattens, moving down towards your abdomen. This movement creates a vacuum in your chest, allowing your chest to expand (get bigger) and pull in air.
How do the intercostal muscles and diaphragm assist in inhalation and exhalation?
The intercostal muscles relax, returning the chest wall to its original position. During exhalation, the diaphragm also relaxes, moving higher into the thoracic cavity. This increases the pressure within the thoracic cavity relative to the environment.
What is the effect of contraction of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles?
During inspiration, the diaphragm and external intercostal muscles contract, causing the rib cage to expand and move outward, and expanding the thoracic cavity and lung volume. This creates a lower pressure within the lung than that of the atmosphere, causing air to be drawn into the lungs.
What are the muscles of the diaphragm?
The diaphragm should be viewed as two distinct muscles, crural and costal, which act in synchrony throughout respiration. However, the activities of these two muscular regions can diverge during certain events such as swallowing and emesis.
