BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Question: 1 / 400

How does the diaphragm change the volume of the thorax during breathing?

By contracting during exhalation

By relaxing during inhalation

By contracting during inhalation

The diaphragm plays a crucial role in the mechanics of breathing by changing the volume of the thoracic cavity. When the diaphragm contracts during inhalation, it moves downward towards the abdominal cavity. This contraction increases the volume of the thorax, which in turn causes a decrease in internal pressure relative to the atmospheric pressure. As a result, air is drawn into the lungs to equalize this pressure difference.

Additionally, the diaphragm's movement is essential for efficient ventilation. When it contracts, it not only enlarges the thoracic cavity but also aids in expanding the lungs, facilitating effective gas exchange. Understanding this process is fundamental for recognizing how the respiratory system operates during both inhalation and exhalation.

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