During inspiration, which statement about intrapulmonary pressure and airflow is correct?

Prepare for your Anatomy and Physiology II Exam with our comprehensive exam resources. Utilize flashcards, multiple choice questions with hints, and detailed explanations. Boost your readiness for success!

Multiple Choice

During inspiration, which statement about intrapulmonary pressure and airflow is correct?

During inspiration the chest expands and the lungs increase in volume, which lowers the intrapulmonary (inside the lungs) pressure below atmospheric pressure. This creates a pressure gradient from the higher atmospheric pressure outside the body to the lower pressure inside the lungs, so air flows into the lungs. Air continues to move in until intrapulmonary pressure returns to atmospheric, at which point airflow stops and expiration follows as the lungs recoil. If intrapulmonary pressure were to rise above atmospheric, air would be pushed out; if it stayed the same as atmospheric, there would be no net airflow.

During inspiration the chest expands and the lungs increase in volume, which lowers the intrapulmonary (inside the lungs) pressure below atmospheric pressure. This creates a pressure gradient from the higher atmospheric pressure outside the body to the lower pressure inside the lungs, so air flows into the lungs. Air continues to move in until intrapulmonary pressure returns to atmospheric, at which point airflow stops and expiration follows as the lungs recoil. If intrapulmonary pressure were to rise above atmospheric, air would be pushed out; if it stayed the same as atmospheric, there would be no net airflow.

More practice questions