GCSE AQA Physical Education The Structure & Functions of the Musculoskeletal System: Define inhalation and describe h

Define inhalation and describe how it takes place at rest - AQA - GCSE Physical Education - Question 8 - 2022 - Paper 1

Question 8

Define inhalation and describe how it takes place at rest. Refer to the intercostal muscles, rib cage and diaphragm in your answer.

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Define inhalation and describe how it takes place at rest - AQA - GCSE Physical Education - Question 8 - 2022 - Paper 1

Step 1

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Answer

Inhalation is the process of taking air into the lungs, where the oxygen from this air is then exchanged with carbon dioxide in the bloodstream.

Step 2

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Answer

At rest, inhalation is a passive process largely aided by the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles.

Diaphragm: When resting, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity.
Intercostal Muscles: The external intercostal muscles also contract, lifting the rib cage upwards and outwards.
Pressure Changes: This increase in volume decreases the pressure in the thoracic cavity, causing air to flow into the lungs from the higher external atmospheric pressure.
Rib Cage: The expansion of the rib cage creates additional space, allowing the lungs to fill with more air efficiently.