How Do You Spell THORACIC RESPIRATION?

1. Thoracic respiration refers to the process of breathing that primarily involves the movement of the ribcage and the related muscles. It is the main type of respiration in mammals, particularly in humans. The term "thoracic" specifically relates to the chest or thorax, which contains the vital organs involved in the respiratory system, such as the lungs and the heart.

   During thoracic respiration, the intercostal muscles, which are situated between the ribs, contract and relax, causing the ribcage to expand and contract. This movement allows for the inhalation and exhalation of air. When inhaling, the intercostal muscles contract, lifting the ribcage and expanding the thoracic cavity. Simultaneously, the diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle beneath the lungs, contracts and flattens, further increasing the space within the chest cavity. These combined actions create negative pressure within the lungs, drawing air into the respiratory system. During exhalation, these muscles relax, allowing the ribcage and diaphragm to return to their original positions, pushing air out of the lungs.

   Thoracic respiration is essential for adequate oxygen exchange, as it enables efficient gas exchange in the alveoli of the lungs. It supplies the cells and tissues of the body with oxygen while removing carbon dioxide as a waste product. Additionally, thoracic respiration plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in the body, regulating the acid-base balance and supporting other physiological processes.

2. R. Effected chiefly by the action of the intercostal and other muscles which raise the ribs, causing expansion of the chest.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for THORACIC RESPIRATION

The word "thoracic respiration" has an etymology that can be broken down as follows:

1. Thoracic: This adjective relates to or involves the thorax, which is the anatomical term for the chest area of the body. It is derived from the Greek word "thorakos", meaning "breastplate" or "chest".

2. Respiration: This noun refers to the act or process of breathing, specifically the intake of oxygen and the release of carbon dioxide in living organisms. It comes from the Latin word "respiratio", which means "a breathing" or "exhalation".

Therefore, "thoracic respiration" describes the breathing process or mechanism that primarily involves the chest or thoracic region of the body.