During inhalation, what happens to the diaphragm?

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Multiple Choice

During inhalation, what happens to the diaphragm?

Explanation:
During inhalation the diaphragm contracts and moves downward. When it tightens, the muscle pulls the central portion downward, flattening the dome and increasing the vertical size of the thoracic cavity. This expansion lowers the pressure inside the lungs, causing air to flow in. The diaphragm does not relax or move upward during inhalation—that happens during exhalation, when it relaxes and rises. It also doesn’t expand outward; its downward movement is what enlarges the chest and draws air in.

During inhalation the diaphragm contracts and moves downward. When it tightens, the muscle pulls the central portion downward, flattening the dome and increasing the vertical size of the thoracic cavity. This expansion lowers the pressure inside the lungs, causing air to flow in. The diaphragm does not relax or move upward during inhalation—that happens during exhalation, when it relaxes and rises. It also doesn’t expand outward; its downward movement is what enlarges the chest and draws air in.

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