The negative pressure gradient that contributes to the respiratory cycle ____.
A)occurs only during expiration
B)exists in the pleural cavity
C)means that the inside of the lungs has a greater pressure pleural sac
D)keeps the lungs separated from the chest wall
E)is known as a pneumothorax

Question

The negative pressure gradient that contributes to the respiratory cycle ____. ​
A)occurs only during expiration
B)exists in the pleural cavity
C)means that the inside of the lungs has a greater pressure pleural sac
D)keeps the lungs separated from the chest wall
E)is known as a pneumothorax ​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The negative pressure gradient that contributes to the respiratory cycle exists in the pleural cavity. This negative pressure gradient is created by the opposing forces of the chest wall, which tends to expand outward, and the lungs, which tend to collapse inward. The negative pressure in the pleural cavity keeps the lungs attached to the chest wall and allows them to expand during inspiration.

The Negative Pressure Gradient That Contributes to the Respiratory Cycle