describe the breathing mechanism show with a flowchart
Answers
Answer:
The processes of inspiration and expiration are vital for providing oxygen to tissues and removing carbon dioxide from the body. Inspiration occurs via active contraction of muscles such as the diaphragm – whereas expiration tends to be passive.
In this article, we shall look at the physiology of ventilation – the process of inspiration and expiration and rest, during forced breathing and their clinical correlations.
The Lungs and Breathing
The space between the outer surface of the lungs and inner thoracic wall is known as the pleural space. This is usually filled with pleural fluid, forming a seal which holds the lungs against the thoracic wall. This seal ensures that when the thoracic cavity expands or reduces, the lungs undergo expansion or reduction in size accordingly.
During breathing, the contraction and relaxation of muscles acts to change the volume of the thoracic cavity – thereby altering the volume of the lungs, and changing the pressure inside the lungs.
Boyle’s law states that the volume of gas is inversely proportional to pressure (when temperature is constant). Therefore:
When the volume of the thoracic cavity increases – the volume of the lungs increases and the pressure within the lungs decreases.
When the volume of the thoracic cavity decreases – the volume of the lungs decreases and the pressure within the lungs increases.