Which type of breathing occurs when the diaphragm moves downwards?

Inhalation occurs when the diaphragm moves downwards. This movement increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, creating a negative pressure that allows air to flow into the lungs. As the diaphragm contracts and flattens, it pulls downwards, and the rib cage may also expand outward, further facilitating the inflow of air. The combination of these movements lowers the pressure within the thoracic cavity compared to the atmospheric pressure, which encourages air to be drawn into the lungs.

This process is essential for effective breathing and is the primary mechanism by which we bring oxygen into our bodies for respiration. Understanding this physiological process can help clarify the mechanics of breathing and the importance of the diaphragm in the respiratory cycle.