mechanics of breathing

Question 1

why is the exchange of gasses important

Answer 1

for the exchange of gasses between blood and air in alveoli, air in the lungs needs to continuously change

Question 2

what is inspiration

Answer 2

taking in air (oxygen)

Question 3

What are the 4 steps in inspiration

Answer 3

1 - intercostal muscle contracts bringing the ribs up and out

2 - the diaphragm contracts and extends the chest cavity down

3 - the volume in the lungs increases

4 - airflow goes from higher pressure to lower pressure in the lungs

Question 4

what are the 4 steps in expiration

Answer 4

1 - the intercostal muscle relaxes making the rib cage go down and back into place

2 - the diaphragm relaxes and pushes up into the chest cavity

3 - the volume in the lungs increases

4 - Air flows from higher pressure in lungs to lower pressure outside