What happens when the diaphragm contracts?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the physiological process that occurs in the body when the diaphragm muscle contracts, specifically its role in respiration.
Answer
When the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, increasing chest cavity space and expanding the lungs.
The final answer is that when the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, increasing the space in the chest cavity and causing the lungs to expand as air is drawn in.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that when the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, increasing the space in the chest cavity and causing the lungs to expand as air is drawn in.
More Information
The diaphragm is a crucial part of the respiratory system, creating a vacuum that allows air to flow into the lungs.
Tips
A common mistake is to think that the diaphragm stays in a fixed position during breathing. Remember that it moves downward during contraction.
Sources
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute - nhlbi.nih.gov
- MedlinePlus: Diaphragm and lungs - medlineplus.gov
