The major muscle of inhalation is the diaphragm.
The Diaphragm: Your Primary Breathing Muscle
The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle located below your lungs that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. According to provided information, the diaphragm is the main muscle used for breathing. When you inhale, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, which increases the volume of the chest cavity. This creates a negative pressure, drawing air into the lungs. When you exhale, the diaphragm relaxes, returning to its dome shape, and air is pushed out of the lungs.
How the Diaphragm Works
The diaphragm's function is crucial for efficient breathing:
- Contraction: The diaphragm contracts and flattens, expanding the chest cavity.
- Increased Volume: The increased volume lowers pressure in the lungs.
- Inhalation: Air rushes into the lungs to equalize the pressure.
- Relaxation: The diaphragm relaxes, decreasing the chest cavity volume.
- Exhalation: Air is forced out of the lungs.
Summary
The diaphragm is indispensable for breathing and acts as the primary muscle for this essential bodily function.
