2007-05-08 10:01:18 · 4 answers · asked by ally_thompson1 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
The diaphragm is a curved sheet of muscle under the rib cage (held there by tendons and connective tissue. It separates the thoracic cavity (containing the lungs and heart) from the rest of your organs (liver, intestines, stomach, etc). When you inhale, the diaphragm drops down (contracts) allowing the lungs to expand and draw air into the alveoli. When you exhale, the diaphragm rises (relaxes), pushing air out of lungs.
2007-05-08 10:49:02 · answer #1 · answered by changchunsciencemonitor 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm not great with anatomy, but yes, it is a muscle sheet and doesn't rest on anything. I think it is between the lungs and the guts though, if that helps.
2007-05-08 10:09:57 · answer #2 · answered by harvityharvharvharv 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It doesn't rest on anything. It is a shelf of muscle, connected to cartilage and tendons that suspend it across the bottom of the ribcage.
2007-05-08 10:06:55 · answer #3 · answered by MOM KNOWS EVERYTHING 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A paper weight ..... oh wait .... I thought you said diagram.
2007-05-08 10:04:11 · answer #4 · answered by steveheremd 2 · 2⤊ 1⤋