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

Why does the diaphragm contract and flatten during inhalation?

To decrease the volume of the thoracic cavity, forcing air out of the lungs.

To decrease the pressure in the abdominal cavity, aiding in digestion.

To increase the volume of the thoracic cavity, allowing air to flow into the lungs.

To increase the pressure inside the lungs, preventing air from entering.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of the diaphragm in the respiratory system: The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle located at the base of the lungs. It plays a crucial role in the process of breathing, particularly during inhalation.

Recognize the mechanics of inhalation: During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, flattening out. This movement is essential for changing the volume and pressure within the thoracic cavity.

Apply the principles of Boyle's Law: According to Boyle's Law, the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume. When the diaphragm contracts and the thoracic cavity volume increases, the pressure inside the cavity decreases.

Relate the pressure change to airflow: The decrease in pressure within the thoracic cavity creates a pressure gradient between the outside atmosphere and the inside of the lungs. Air naturally flows from an area of higher pressure (outside) to an area of lower pressure (inside the lungs), allowing inhalation to occur.

Conclude the function of diaphragm contraction: The contraction and flattening of the diaphragm during inhalation is primarily to increase the volume of the thoracic cavity, which decreases the internal pressure and allows air to flow into the lungs, facilitating breathing.