Mechanics and Types of Respiration

Pulmonary Ventilation: Mechanics of Breathing

Respiration is a vital physiological process that ensures the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the environment. This blog post discusses the mechanisms and types of respiration, emphasizing pulmonary ventilation and the mechanics of breathing.

Mechanics of Breathing

Breathing involves two phases: inspiration and expiration. This process is facilitated by respiratory muscles, including the diaphragm and intercostal muscles.

Inspiration

• The diaphragm contracts, moving downward.
• Intercostal muscles contract, expanding the rib cage.
• Intrathoracic pressure decreases, allowing air to enter the lungs.

Expiration

• The diaphragm relaxes, moving upward.
• Intercostal muscles relax, reducing thoracic volume.
• Increased intrathoracic pressure forces air out.

Types of Respiration

• External Respiration: Exchange of gases between the lungs and blood.
• Internal Respiration: Gas exchange between blood and tissues.
• Cellular Respiration: Oxygen utilization at the cellular level to generate energy.