Question

What is breathing? Explain the mechanism of breathing.

Answer 1

The process of exchange of oxygen from the atmosphere with carbon dioxide produced by the cells is called breathing. The process of breathing involves two phases:

(1) Inhalation/ Inspiration - When atmospheric air is drawn in and it reaches the lungs then the ribs and sternum raises, the volume of the thorax increases and diaphragm contracts.

(2) Exhalation/ Expiration - When the alveolar air is released out, ribs and sternum return to their original position, the volume of the thorax decreases and diaphragm relaxes and arches upwards