Final answer:
Diaphragmatic breathing is responsible for about 75% of our respiratory effort. It involves the diaphragm contracting and moving downwards to inhale, and then relaxing allowing exhalation through the lungs' natural elasticity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The breath responsible for about 75% of our respiratory effort is known as diaphragmatic breathing. This type of breathing involves the contraction of the diaphragm, a large muscle located at the base of the lungs. When engaged, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, which expands the chest cavity and allows the lungs to fill with air for inhalation. Upon relaxation, the diaphragm moves up under the lungs' natural elastic recoil, aiding in exhalation. This contrasts with costal breathing, which is dependent on the intercostal muscles and accounts for a smaller portion of respiratory effort.
Diaphragmatic breathing is typically associated with deep breaths and is an efficient way of ventilating the lungs. This type of breathing is particularly effective in managing the balance of oxygen intake and carbon dioxide expulsion.