What Happens to the Chest Cavity and Air Pressure in the Lungs

Question

What happens to the chest cavity and air pressure in the lungs during exhalation?
A) The chest cavity increases, and air pressure decreases.
B) The chest cavity increases, and air pressure also increases.
C) The chest cavity decreases, and air pressure increases.
D) The chest cavity decreases, and air pressure also decreases.

Accepted Answer

During exhalation, the chest cavity decreases in size due to the relaxation of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. This decrease in volume leads to an increase in air pressure inside the lungs compared to the outside atmosphere, causing air to flow out of the lungs.