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

10. Muscles

Muscle Naming

Anatomy & Physiology

10. Muscles

Muscle Naming

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Problem 10

Textbook Question

Which of the following muscle groups is considered muscles of inspiration?
a. External intercostal muscles
b. Internal intercostal muscles
c. External oblique muscles
d. Internal oblique muscles

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the process of inspiration (inhalation). During inspiration, the thoracic cavity expands to allow air to enter the lungs. This expansion is facilitated by muscles that increase the volume of the thoracic cavity.

Step 2: Identify the primary muscles involved in inspiration. The diaphragm is the main muscle responsible for inspiration, but other accessory muscles also play a role, such as the external intercostal muscles.

Step 3: Analyze the function of external intercostal muscles. These muscles are located between the ribs and contract during inspiration to elevate the rib cage, increasing the thoracic cavity's volume.

Step 4: Compare the functions of the other muscle groups listed. Internal intercostal muscles are primarily involved in forced expiration, while external and internal oblique muscles are part of the abdominal wall and assist in movements like trunk rotation and forced expiration, not inspiration.

Step 5: Conclude that external intercostal muscles are considered muscles of inspiration because they actively contribute to expanding the thoracic cavity during inhalation.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Muscles of Inspiration

Muscles of inspiration are those that facilitate inhalation by expanding the thoracic cavity. The primary muscles involved include the diaphragm and external intercostal muscles, which work together to increase lung volume and decrease pressure, allowing air to flow into the lungs.

External Intercostal Muscles

The external intercostal muscles are located between the ribs and play a crucial role in the breathing process. During inhalation, these muscles contract to elevate the ribs and expand the chest cavity, thereby aiding in the intake of air into the lungs.

Internal Intercostal Muscles

The internal intercostal muscles are also situated between the ribs but primarily assist in forced expiration rather than inspiration. They work to depress the ribs and reduce the volume of the thoracic cavity during exhalation, contrasting with the role of the external intercostals.