How Expiration Works: Anatomy and Physiology of Breathing Out #144289 (License: Personal Use)

This medical diagram illustrates the physiological process of expiration: the diaphragm contracts upward, decreasing thoracic cavity volume, while the lungs recoil elastically to expel air. Arrows indicate airflow direction-from alveoli through bronchi, trachea, and out the nose/mouth-highlighting passive exhalation during normal breathing. The left side shows healthy lung tissue, while the right depicts the cross-sectional airway pathway.

Used in educational healthcare content (e.g., biology textbooks, pulmonary therapy guides, patient education portals) to explain normal respiratory mechanics; matches user intent for learning about breathing physiology or diagnosing respiratory issues.