Final answer:
Vesicular breath sounds are low pitch, soft, and have a long inspiration and short expiration, typically heard over the majority of both lungs. They are normal sounds heard during a healthy pulmonary ventilation process, which involves active inspiration and passive expiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lung sounds described as 'low pitch, soft, and with a long inspiration and short expiration' are typically referred to as vesicular breath sounds. These sounds are normally heard over the majority of both lungs, especially over the peripheral areas away from the major bronchi. Vesicular sounds are produced when air moves through the smaller airways such as the bronchioles and alveoli.
During a physical examination, the detection of vesicular sounds is important for assessing pulmonary ventilation and determining if the lungs are functioning properly. It is significant to note variances and identify the presence of abnormal lung sounds, such as the crackling sound known as crepitations, which may suggest conditions like pneumonia.
In the context of pulmonary ventilation, understanding the processes of inspiration and expiration is crucial. Inspiration involves the contraction of the diaphragm and external intercostal muscles, allowing the thoracic cavity to expand and air to flow into the lungs. Expiration is a passive process where the diaphragm and intercostal muscles relax, causing the thoracic cavity to decrease in volume and air to be expelled from the lungs.