Exhalation: Understanding Ribcage and Diaphragm Movement

Exhalation:

During exhalation, the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles relax. This relaxation reduces the volume of the thoracic cavity, pushing the air out of the lungs.

Ribcage:

- The external intercostal muscles relax, allowing the rib cage to move down and inward.

- The sternum also moves down and inward.

Diaphragm:

- The diaphragm relaxes and moves upward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity.

The combination of these movements reduces the volume of the thoracic cavity, expelling air from the lungs.