During exhalation, in which direction do the ribs move?a)Outwardsb)Dow...
Understanding Rib Movement During Exhalation
When we exhale, the movement of the ribs plays a crucial role in the mechanics of breathing. Here's a detailed explanation of how this process works:
1. Role of the Diaphragm
- The diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle at the base of the thoracic cavity, contracts during inhalation, pulling downward and expanding the chest cavity.
- During exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes and moves back up, decreasing the volume of the chest cavity.
2. Rib Movement
- As the diaphragm rises, the ribs also move. Specifically, they move downward.
- The intercostal muscles, which are located between the ribs, help facilitate this movement. When these muscles relax, the ribs are pulled down and inwards.
3. Pressure Changes
- The downward movement of the ribs reduces the volume in the thoracic cavity, leading to an increase in pressure.
- This pressure forces air out of the lungs, allowing us to exhale effectively.
4. Conclusion
- Therefore, during exhalation, the ribs primarily move downwards. This movement is essential for the efficient expulsion of air from the lungs.
- Understanding this mechanism highlights the intricate relationship between muscle actions and respiratory function.
In summary, the correct answer to the question is option 'B': during exhalation, the ribs move downwards, facilitating the process of breathing out.
During exhalation, in which direction do the ribs move?a)Outwardsb)Dow...
During exhalation,
i.e. releasing air during respiration, the
ribs move downwards to reduce the volume of the thoracic cavity.
During exhalation, your diaphragm relaxes and moves upward into the chest cavity. The intercostal muscles between the ribs also relax to reduce the space in the chest cavity. As they relax they position the rib cage downwards and inwards.
