MEDICAL PHYSIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Upon inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and flattens and the chest cavity enlarges. This contraction creates a vacuum, which pulls air into the lungs. Upon exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes and returns to its domelike shape, and air is forced out of the lungs.

Detailed explanation-2: -When the diaphragm contracts, the vertical dimensions of the thoracic cavity increase. The contraction of the diaphragm causes it to flatten out and thus increase the volume, and lower the pressure of the thoracic cavity. This is what causes inhalation.

Detailed explanation-3: -During inspiration, the contraction of diaphragm occurs and it become flat. This increase the volume of the thoracic cavity in the longitudinal direction i.e., antero-posterior axis.

Detailed explanation-4: -The diaphragm has many other roles besides respiration. It acts as a barrier between the thoracic and abdominal cavity and prevents herniation of abdominal organs into the chest cavity. Both penetrating and blunt trauma can injure the diaphragm.