Final answer:
A full respiratory cycle includes both inhalation (an active process involving contraction of the diaphragm to draw air in) and exhalation (a passive process where air is expelled due to relaxation of the respiratory muscles). This cycle is also termed pulmonary ventilation. The correct answer to the question is a) inhalation and exhalation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Respiratory Cycles
A full respiratory cycle involves both inhalation and exhalation. During inhalation, the diaphragm and external intercostal muscles contract, lowering pressure inside the lungs and allowing air to flow in. This expands the thoracic cavity and increases the lung volume.
On the other hand, exhalation is typically a passive process where the diaphragm and intercostal muscles relax, and the elasticity of the lungs and the thoracic cavity push the air out.
Pulmonary ventilation, which includes both steps of the respiratory cycle, is crucial for gas exchange in the lungs. It is the process by which air is drawn into the lungs due to the diaphragm's contraction and the subsequent rising of the rib cage. When these muscles relax during exhalation, the decreased volume of the thoracic cavity forces air out of the lungs.
The correct answer to the question is a) inhalation and exhalation, as both are necessary for a complete respiratory cycle. This process is also known as pulmonary ventilation, involving the lungs, chest wall, and diaphragm performing repetitive contractions and relaxations.
The correct answer to the question is a) inhalation and exhalation.