Final answer:
The diaphragm contracts and flattens during inspiration to draw air into the lungs and relaxes during exhalation to push air out, playing a crucial role in the process of ventilation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role of the diaphragm in ventilation is crucial for the process of breathing, which includes both inspiration (inhalation) and expiration (exhalation). During inspiration, the diaphragm contracts and flattens down, increasing the space in the thoracic cavity and creating a negative pressure that draws air into the lungs. On the other hand, during exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes, rising into a dome shape, and decreases the space in the thoracic cavity, which causes the air to be pushed out of the lungs