When the diaphragm contracts (is pulled downward), what occurs?

When the diaphragm contracts and is pulled downward, it increases the volume of the thoracic cavity. As the space in the chest expands, the pressure within the lungs decreases relative to the atmospheric pressure outside the body. This pressure differential causes air to flow into the lungs, leading to inhalation.

During inhalation, the diaphragm plays a crucial role in facilitating the process of breathing by creating a negative pressure that draws air into the respiratory system. This movement is fundamental to how we breathe, and understanding it is essential for anyone studying basic physiology or preparing for a career in nursing and healthcare.