Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

22. The Respiratory System

Introduction to Lung Physiology

Anatomy & Physiology

22. The Respiratory System

Introduction to Lung Physiology

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Multiple Choice

What effect does contraction of the diaphragm have on airflow through the airways of the lungs?

It decreases airflow by decreasing thoracic cavity volume.

It decreases airflow by increasing thoracic cavity pressure.

It has no effect on airflow.

It increases airflow by decreasing thoracic cavity pressure.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of the diaphragm: The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle located at the base of the lungs. Its contraction and relaxation play a crucial role in the process of breathing.

Identify the effect of diaphragm contraction: When the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity.

Relate volume changes to pressure changes: According to Boyle's Law, an increase in the volume of a closed space leads to a decrease in pressure within that space. Therefore, as the thoracic cavity volume increases, the pressure inside decreases.

Connect pressure changes to airflow: Air flows from areas of higher pressure to areas of lower pressure. When the thoracic cavity pressure decreases, it becomes lower than the atmospheric pressure, causing air to flow into the lungs.

Conclude the effect on airflow: The contraction of the diaphragm increases airflow into the lungs by decreasing the thoracic cavity pressure, facilitating inhalation.