Question

Abdominal breathing refers to
A. Normal breathing
B. Slow breathing
C. Fast breathing
D. Voluntary breathing

Answer 1

Breathing is a process by which atmospheric air is drawn and carbon dioxide-rich alveolar air is released out. Breathing takes place with the help of the diaphragm, external and internal intercostal muscles, and abdominal muscles.

Complete step by step answer:
The process of the exchange of oxygen from the atmosphere with carbon dioxide produced by the cells is called breathing. Oxygen is utilized by the cells to indirectly break down nutrient molecules like glucose and to derive energy for performing various activities.
Carbon dioxide is harmful and released during the breakdown of nutrients. Up and down movement of the chest occurs during breathing(ventilation). The breathing among all vertebrates (by lungs) includes repetitive cycles of inspiration and expiration.

Inspiration	Expiration
It occurs when the pressure within the lungs is less than the atmospheric pressure.	Expiration occurs when the intrapulmonary pressure is higher than the atmospheric pressure.
It is an active process.	It is a passive process.
It is initiated by the contraction of the diaphragm(becomes flattened).	The diaphragm returns to its normal dome-shaped position.
External and intercostal muscles contract, pulling ribs and sternum upwards, forwards, and outwards increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity dorsoventrally and laterally.	The external intercostal muscle relaxes returning ribs and sternum to their normal position.

During forceful expiration, internal muscles and abdominal muscles also contract. We can increase the strength of breathing with abdominal muscles.
Abdominal breathing is normal breathing also known as deep breathing or belly breathing, where air enters the lungs and belly and expands (by contracting the diaphragm).
The extremely slow rate of breathing is called bradypnea.
An extremely fast rate of breathing is called tachypnea.
So, the correct option is A. normal breathing.

Note: Respiration = Breathing + Oxidation of food
1. The process of respiration involves breathing, diffusion of oxygen, and carbon dioxide across the alveolar membrane.
2. Transport of gases by the blood.
3. Diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide between blood and tissues.
4. And cellular respiration.