Open Question
As a result of a stroke, Mrs. Minnick's swallowing is uncoordinated. What detrimental effect might this have on her ability to breathe?
22. The Respiratory System
Ventilation
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Why does air rush into the lungs during an inhale or inspiration?
A
Increase in atmospheric pressure.
B
Diaphragm moves upward.
C
Decrease in air pressure in the lungs.
D
Contraction of abdominal muscles.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the basic principle of breathing: Air moves from areas of higher pressure to areas of lower pressure.
Recognize that during inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity.
Apply Boyle's Law, which states that pressure and volume are inversely related. As the volume of the thoracic cavity increases, the pressure inside the lungs decreases.
Realize that the decrease in pressure inside the lungs creates a pressure gradient between the atmosphere and the lungs, causing air to rush into the lungs.
Conclude that the correct reason air rushes into the lungs during inhalation is due to the decrease in air pressure in the lungs, not an increase in atmospheric pressure or contraction of abdominal muscles.
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