Question

During heavy breathing, in case of exhalation, which of the following muscles contract?

• A. Diaphragm
• B. External intercostal muscles
• C. Sternocleidomastoid
• D. Internal intercostal muscles

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Internal intercostal muscles

The correct option is D

Explanation of the correct option :

1. The internal intercostal muscles contract as you exhale when you are breathing heavily.
2. When you inhale, your external intercostal muscles relax.

Explanation for incorrect option:

Option A:

Diaphragm:

1. The main muscle used for breathing is the diaphragm, which is situated underneath the lungs.
2. It is a large, dome-shaped muscle that frequently contracts unconsciously and regularly.
3. The diaphragm flattens and tightens during inhalation, and the chest cavity widens.

Option B:

External intercostal muscles:

1. The external intercostal muscles attach to the ribs in such a way that when they contract, the ribs and rib cage are lifted.
2. This way the rib cage's anterior and posterior dimensions are increased.

Option C:

Sternocleidomastoid:

1. The paired superficial muscle is known as the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) or musculus sternocleidomastoideus is located in the front part of the neck.
2. An important marker in the neck that separates it into an anterior and a posterior triangle is the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM).

Final Answer: Internal intercostal muscles contract during heavy breathing, in case of exhalation.