Role of intercostal muscles, pleural membranes and diaphragm in inspiration and expiration Flashcards
1
Q
Role of intercostal muscles
A
When breather in air (inspiration), the intercostal muscles pull the ribcage upwards and outwards and the diaphragm flattens inwards. The result of these two movements is an increase in volume and a decrease in pressure, which forces air into the lungs so that they inflate.
2
Q
Role of pleural membranes
A
Pleural membranes consist of two layers of thin membrane. They are moist and slippery, having a thin film of liquid between the two layers. This lubricates the surface so that the two pleural layers will slide over each other, allowing the lungs to move easily within the chest cavity. This means they move with the chest wall as breathing occurs.
