Diaphragm & Chest Cavity Mechanics: Inhalation & Exhalation Explained

When you inhale, your diaphragm contracts and moves downward, while your chest cavity expands. This expansion of the chest cavity creates a negative pressure that pulls air into the lungs.

When you exhale, the process is reversed. Your diaphragm relaxes and moves upward, while your chest cavity contracts. This contraction of the chest cavity forces air out of the lungs.

Here is a table summarizing the changes that occur during inhalation and exhalation:

| Phase | Diaphragm | Chest Cavity |

|---|---|---|

| Inhalation | Contracts and moves downward | Expands |

| Exhalation | Relaxes and moves upward | Contracts |