0
The thorax is the region of the trunk between the neck and the diaphragm (essentially the chest). Its main respiratory function (despite being the space that contains all the other respiratory organs) is to enable the act of breathing.
Essentially, the act of breathing is about changing the volume of your thoracic cavity; increasing it to breathe in and decreasing it to breathe out.
Your lungs are surrounded by an airtight 'skin' called the pleural membrane. This allows the two lungs to be contained in one airtight sac and the only way in or out is through the trachea and ultimately the mouth or nose. When the thoracic space increases, a pressure gradient is created between the external (higher) air pressure and the internal (lower) air pressure, thus, air flows down the pressure gradient into the lungs to equalize the pressure and you have breathed in. When breathing out the reverse happens, the thoracic volume decreases creating a pressure gradient (higher on the inside, lower on the outside) and air flows out of the lungs.
Muscles are responsible for changing the volume of your thoracic cavity. The most important is the diaphragm. When relaxed it is dome shaped with the top near the base of your lungs and the bottom at the lower end of your rib cage. When it contracts, it pulls down and increases the internal space allowing the inspiration of air. The other muscles involved are called the intercostals. They are located in between your ribs and are divided between the internal and the external ones. When the external intercostal muscles contract, they increase the space between each of the ribs and therefore increase the thoracic space. When the internal intercostal muscles contract, they pull the ribs closer together and decrease the internal volume (breathing out). There are also muscles in the neck (sternocleidomastoid and scalenes) that help the chest rise up and out when inspiring. All these muscles work together to increase the thoracic volume and enable the act of breathing.
What else can I help you with?
Are the organs of the upper respiratory tract located outside the thorax?
Yes, the organs of the upper respiratory tract, such as the nose, pharynx, and larynx, are located outside the thorax, which is the chest cavity. These organs are responsible for the initial passage of air into the respiratory system.
How is the open structure of the bony thorax an advantage?
The open structure of the bony thorax allows for flexibility in breathing movements, such as during inhalation and exhalation. It also provides protection for vital organs, such as the heart and lungs, by encasing them within the rib cage. Additionally, the open structure facilitates the attachment of muscles that aid in respiratory function and movement of the upper body.
The main function of the respiratory system is to?
The main function of the respiratory system is the exchange of gases. It brings in oxygen and elmiinates carbon dioxide.
What is the function of metal in respiratory pigment?
The metal component of a respiratory pigment is the part that actually binds to the oxygen molecule.
What is the primary function of the nose?
There will be difference of opinion on this issue. Your doctor will say it has got a respiratory function and a beautician will say it is aesthetic in function.
Where is the thorax on a horse?
The thorax on a horse is located between the neck and the abdomen, encompassing the rib cage area. It houses important organs such as the lungs and heart and is crucial for the horse's respiratory and circulatory systems to function properly.
Are the organs of the upper respiratory tract located outside the thorax?
Yes, the organs of the upper respiratory tract, such as the nose, pharynx, and larynx, are located outside the thorax, which is the chest cavity. These organs are responsible for the initial passage of air into the respiratory system.
Where is the respiratory system loacted?
Mostly in thorax, some part in neck and head .
What does the thorax of an insect do?
The thorax of an insect contains the muscles responsible for moving its legs and wings, allowing it to walk and fly. Additionally, the thorax protects the insect's vital organs, such as the heart and respiratory system.
What are the function of spiracles which are found on the abodomen and thorax?
Simple sugars
What is the primary function of the deep muscles of the thorax to promote?
breathing
Function of the pleura?
This serosa covers the thorax cavity, the heart, and the lungs. It gives the lungs a libricant, allowing them to move easily over the thorax wall.
What is the function of the diaphram?
the function of the diaphragm is to separate the thorax from the abdomen it is the most essential part of the respiratory system. it helps you to breath evenly.
What is the meaning of respiratory?
Of or pertaining to respiration; serving for respiration; as, the respiratory organs; respiratory nerves; the respiratory function; respiratory changes.
What does the the bony thorax protect?
The bony thorax protects the heart and liver. Wrong... the bone thorax protects the heart and LUNGS as it also allows the respiratory muscle to create a vacuum that will draw air into the lungs. while the Ribs withing in the bone thorax will protect not only the thoracic organs, but as well the spleen, most of the liver and to some extent the kidneys.
What is the function of a typical cell of the respiratory passage lining?
The primary function of the respiratory system is to provide for the exchange of respiratory gases(O2, CO2) between the organism and the environment.
How is the open structure of the bony thorax an advantage?
The open structure of the bony thorax allows for flexibility in breathing movements, such as during inhalation and exhalation. It also provides protection for vital organs, such as the heart and lungs, by encasing them within the rib cage. Additionally, the open structure facilitates the attachment of muscles that aid in respiratory function and movement of the upper body.
