Increasing the size of the thoracic cavity through contraction of the diaphragm and rib muscles causes
A) an inhalation.
B) an exhalation.
C) coughing.
D) positive pressure in the lungs.
E) swallowing.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the size of the thoracic cavity increases due to the contraction of the diaphragm and rib muscles, it creates a negative pressure inside the chest relative to the outside air, causing air to flow into the lungs, which is the process of inhalation.

Increasing the Size of the Thoracic Cavity Through Contraction of the Diaphragm