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Recall that each lung is surrounded by a double-layered serous membrane called t

ID: 3514191 • Letter: R

Question

Recall that each lung is surrounded by a double-layered serous membrane called the pleura. The inner, shiny visceral pleura lies on the lung surface, whereas the outer parietal pleura lines the thoracic wall. Between the visceral pleura and the parietal pleura is a pleural cavity filled with serous fluid. Distinguish between the shiny visceral pleura on the lung surface and the parietal pleura lining the thoracic wall. 13. Identify the diaphragm, the skeletal muscle that sepa- rates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity What is the respiratory function of the diaphragm?

Explanation / Answer

Diphragm is the main muscle of respiration:

During inspiration diaphragm contract---> Diphragm moves downwards to pelvis and pulls the parietal pleura with it ------>toracic cavity enlarges---> thoracic pressure reduced ----> allows lungs to expand ------> air inhalation takes place.

During expiration diaphragm relaxes ------> move upwards along with parital pleura -----> thoracic cavity size reduced ----> elastic recoiling of lung takes place ------> exhalation occurs.

Diaphragm also helps intercostal muscle and lower ribs to allow expansion of toracic cavty.