Which muscles are primarily used for breathing?

The diaphragm and intercostal muscles are the primary muscles utilized in the process of breathing. The diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle located at the base of the thoracic cavity, plays a crucial role in respiration by contracting and flattening during inhalation, which increases the volume of the thoracic cavity and allows air to flow into the lungs. This contraction creates a pressure difference that draws air into the respiratory system.

Intercostal muscles, situated between the ribs, assist the diaphragm by expanding and contracting the rib cage during the respiratory cycle. The external intercostals help lift the rib cage and increase thoracic volume during inhalation, while the internal intercostals contribute to forced exhalation by pulling the rib cage downward.

Together, these muscles work synergistically to facilitate the movement of air in and out of the lungs efficiently, making them essential for the respiratory process.