Inhalation Question

[justadream]

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During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and the ribs expand.

Are these completely independent events?

For example, does diaphragm contraction facilitate rib expansion?

 

[Cawolf]

They are separate as you say.

The way I like to see it is that more muscles are "recruited" as more intense breathing is required.

When forced inhalation is required, other muscles such as the intercostals (rib elevation and expansion) work to increase thoracic volume.

Further, muscles of the neck can also become involved as needed to lift and open the chest.

It is noteworthy that the muscles have separate innervations - phrenic nerves to diaphragm and intercostal nerves to the intecostal muscles (cervical vs thoracic).

 

[justadream]

It is noteworthy that the muscles have separate innervations - phrenic nerves to diaphragm and intercostal nerves to the intecostal muscles (cervical vs thoracic).

I hope that stuff is not required for the MCAT.

 

[Cawolf]

I highly doubt it!

I think you know more than enough with your first post even.