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Multiple Choice
What happens when the diaphragm contracts during inhalation?
A
The thoracic cavity increases in volume, causing air to be drawn into the lungs.
B
The thoracic cavity decreases in volume, causing air to be expelled from the lungs.
C
The diaphragm moves upward, reducing lung capacity.
D
The diaphragm remains stationary, maintaining constant lung pressure.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the diaphragm in respiration: The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle located at the base of the thoracic cavity. It plays a crucial role in the process of breathing by changing the volume of the thoracic cavity.
Identify the action of the diaphragm during inhalation: During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, flattening out. This movement increases the volume of the thoracic cavity.
Explain the effect of increased thoracic cavity volume: As the volume of the thoracic cavity increases, the pressure inside the cavity decreases according to Boyle's Law, which states that pressure and volume are inversely related.
Describe the result of decreased pressure in the thoracic cavity: The decrease in pressure inside the thoracic cavity creates a pressure gradient between the outside air and the air inside the lungs, causing air to be drawn into the lungs.
Summarize the process: The contraction of the diaphragm during inhalation increases the thoracic cavity's volume, decreases internal pressure, and results in air being drawn into the lungs, facilitating breathing.