During Inhalation, Air Continues to Move into the Lungs Until

Question

During inhalation, air continues to move into the lungs until
A) the internal pressure is the same is atmospheric pressure.
B) the internal pressure is less than atmospheric pressure.
C) the internal pressure is greater than atmospheric pressure.
D) the compliance of the lung decreases.
E) the lungs recoil.

Accepted Answer

During inhalation, the diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract, expanding the thoracic cavity and reducing the pressure inside the lungs. Air flows from an area of higher pressure (outside the body) to an area of lower pressure (inside the lungs) until the pressures are equalized. This occurs when the internal pressure is the same as the atmospheric pressure.