Question

What happens during inhalation?

Answer 1

During inhalation, the contraction of the diaphragm and the external intercostal muscles increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, leading to a decrease in air pressure within the lungs. This causes air to flow in from the atmosphere to equalize the pressure difference, allowing for gas exchange in the alveoli.

Step-by-step explanation:

What Happens During Inhalation?

Inhalation, or inspiration, is the process of drawing air into the lungs, and it is a vital part of pulmonary ventilation. The process begins with the contraction of the diaphragm, which is a large, dome-shaped muscle located below the lungs. As the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity. Simultaneously, the external intercostal muscles between the ribs also contract, helping the rib cage to expand outward. This increase in thoracic cavity volume results in a decrease in air pressure inside the lungs compared to the atmospheric pressure. Accordingly, air flows into the lungs via the respiratory tract to equalize the pressure.

During inhalation, air first enters through the nasal cavity, where it is warmed, humidified, and cleaned of particulate matter before reaching the lungs. Muscles such as the external intercostal muscles are particularly engaged during forced inhalation, such as taking a deep breath. The overall expansion of the thoracic cavity and the subsequent negative pressure created within the lungs facilitate the entry of air into the alveoli where gas exchange will occur.

Answer 2

Inhalation is the process where oxygen is taking in to the respiratory system thru the nasal passageways and to the tiny alveolar sacs of the lungs. This process also expands the lungs and the diaphragm heightens or elevates upward.

The counterpart of inhalation is exhalation, where the carbon dioxide is taken out of the lungs in opposite of the oxygen passageways.

This two exchange is called the gas exchange or respiration which happens in the respiratory system responsible for enabling and providing oxygen throughout the body.