What Happens When the Diaphragm and the Intercostal Muscles Relax

Question

What happens when the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles relax?
A) air moves out of the lungs.
B) inhalation occurs.
C) ventilation ceases.
D) chest volume increases.

Accepted Answer

When the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles relax, this decreases the volume of the thoracic cavity, which causes air to move out of the lungs due to the increased pressure in the lungs compared to the external environment. This process is known as exhalation or expiration.