What happens to the pressure in the thoracic cavity during inhalation at rest?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the changes in pressure within the thoracic cavity during the process of inhalation at rest. More specifically, it is looking for the correct option that describes whether the pressure increases, decreases, remains the same, or fluctuates during this process.
Answer
Pressure decreases in the thoracic cavity during inhalation.
The final answer is that pressure in the thoracic cavity decreases during inhalation.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that pressure in the thoracic cavity decreases during inhalation.
More Information
During inhalation, the contraction of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles increases the volume of the thoracic cavity. According to Boyle's Law, an increase in the volume of a closed system leads to a decrease in pressure. Thus, air is drawn into the lungs as the pressure decreases.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the changes in pressure with changes in volume; remember, increased volume leads to decreased pressure.
Sources
- Control of Breathing - Merck Manual Consumer Version - merckmanuals.com
- The Mechanics of Human Breathing | Biology for Majors II - Lumen - courses.lumenlearning.com
- The Process of Breathing | Anatomy and Physiology II - Lumen - courses.lumenlearning.com
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