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Multiple Choice
When you exhale, __________.
A
both the diaphragm and rib muscles contract
B
the rib muscles contract and the air pressure in the alveoli becomes lower than atmospheric pressure
C
the volume of the chest cavity increases
D
the diaphragm relaxes and the lungs expand
E
both the diaphragm and the rib muscles relax
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of exhalation: Exhalation is the process of releasing air from the lungs. It is a passive process that occurs when the muscles involved in inhalation relax.
Identify the muscles involved: During inhalation, the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles (rib muscles) contract to increase the volume of the chest cavity. During exhalation, these muscles relax.
Consider the changes in the chest cavity: When the diaphragm and rib muscles relax, the volume of the chest cavity decreases, which increases the air pressure inside the alveoli compared to the atmospheric pressure.
Understand the pressure changes: The increase in pressure inside the alveoli relative to the outside atmosphere causes air to flow out of the lungs, resulting in exhalation.
Conclude with the correct answer: Since exhalation involves the relaxation of both the diaphragm and the rib muscles, the correct answer is that both the diaphragm and the rib muscles relax.