3D Models of Breathing

Movement of the Diaphragm and Breathing Dynamics

Breathing is the act of inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide.

During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward. At the same time, the intercostal muscles, located between the ribs contract, expanding the ribcage laterally, out to the sides and upwards. These actions increase the amount of space in the thoracic cavity, enabling the lungs to expand.

The contraction of the diaphragm happens automatically, since the atmosphere has a greater pressure than the lungs, and gasses naturally move from areas of higher pressure towards areas of lower pressure. As anatomist Leslie Kaminoff has said, “The Universe breathes us.”

Chest movement during breathing helps move air into the alveoli (air sacs) within the lungs so oxygen-carbon dioxide gas exchange can take place.

Since the inhalation has resulted in increased pressure in the abdominal cavity (think of air compressed gas), the exhalation occurs automatically as the diaphragm relaxes. The act of expelling air can also be assisted by the abdominals muscles (all four of them), which are commonly referred to as “muscles of forced exhalation.”

3D Models of Breathing

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