What is the term used to describe the process where intercostal muscles and the diaphragm contract to allow air to flow into the lungs?

The term that describes the process where intercostal muscles and the diaphragm contract to allow air to flow into the lungs is inhalation. During inhalation, the diaphragm, which is a dome-shaped muscle separating the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity, moves downward, and the intercostal muscles, located between the ribs, contract to elevate the rib cage. This combination of actions increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, creating a negative pressure that draws air into the alveoli of the lungs.

Inhalation is vital for gas exchange, as it allows oxygen to enter the lungs, where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream and delivered to the body’s tissues. Understanding this process is fundamental in emergency care, particularly in situations related to respiratory distress or failure, where ensuring adequate ventilation is crucial for patient survival.