What occurs during inhalation in the respiratory process?

During inhalation, the process begins with the diaphragm contracting, which pushes downwards. This action leads to an expansion of the thoracic cavity. As the thoracic cavity expands, it creates a negative pressure relative to the outside atmosphere. This negative pressure allows air to rush into the lungs as it follows the gradient from high pressure (outside) to low pressure (inside the thoracic cavity).

This mechanism is essential for effective breathing because it facilitates the movement of air into the lungs, allowing for gas exchange to occur in the alveoli. Proper inhalation is crucial for oxygen intake and overall respiratory efficiency. The additional context about the diaphragm and thoracic cavity is key in understanding how inhalation works and its importance in respiratory physiology.