Question

Describe in brief the function of ribs and diaphragm in breathing.

Answer 1

The act of breathing is performed primarily by the diaphragm, a large muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity and also by the movement of the ribs.

During inspiration the diaphragm contracts and becomes flat, creating a vacuum in the thoracic cavity. This vacuum inflates the lungs by drawing air into the body through the trachea, or windpipe.

During normal expiration, the diaphragm relaxes allowing the air to flow out as the lungs deflate.

The ribs protect the lungs and expand as we inhale to facilitate space for the lungs to expand like the diaphragm. The ribs then contract expelling the air in the lung.