Are the steps of inhaling the opposite of the steps of exhaling?

Answer 1

Fairly so, since the process must cyclically repeat. In humans, the diaphragm moves downward, releasing its pressure on the lungs, which fill with air due to the difference in atmospheric pressure. The oxygen reaches the lungs where it is exchanged with carbon dioxide. The diaphragm relaxes, pushing upward and forcing air from the lungs, which also contract elastically.

The major difference is that inhalation requires energy for the muscle to pull downward. It returns to its normal position by relaxation.

You can blow (expel more than the usual air) by putting voluntary pressure on the rib cage and lungs with the intercostal and abdominal muscles -- this is the principle used to inflate a balloon by mouth.