What happens to your diaphragm during inhalation?

During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts, which is a key aspect of the breathing process. When the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity. This decrease in pressure within the lungs allows air to be drawn in from the atmosphere. The contraction of the diaphragm is essential for effective ventilation, as it physically creates space for the lungs to expand and fill with air.

While other terms like "expands" or "rises" may seem relevant, they do not accurately describe the specific action of the diaphragm during inhalation. "Expands" could refer to the lungs themselves expanding due to the change in pressure, but it does not pertain directly to the diaphragm's action. "Rises" could mislead one into thinking that the diaphragm elevates, which is not the case when it contracts and moves downward. Additionally, "relaxes" pertains to a different phase of breathing—exhalation—when the diaphragm ceases contracting and allows the lungs to deflate.