Final answer:
Pressure and volume are the two variables that dictate the mechanics of breathing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two variables that dictate the mechanics of breathing or pulmonary ventilation are pressure and volume. During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and the volume of the thoracic cavity increases, causing a decrease in pressure. This creates a pressure gradient that allows air to flow into the lungs. During exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes and the volume of the thoracic cavity decreases, causing an increase in pressure, which then forces air out of the lungs.
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