Question

What is the role of epiglottis and diaphragm in respiration?

Answer 1

Respiration is the biological process of exchange of gases in which oxygen is inhaled and carbon dioxide is exhaled. In respiration different parts are involved for the formation of the respiratory system.

Complete answer:
Respiration is a process in which respiratory gases such as oxygen is taken in and carbon dioxide is given out. There are generally two types of respiratory processes in humans. One is external respiration which involves the inhalation of oxygen and exhalation of carbon dioxide and the other is internal respiration which functions in between blood and body cells.
Respiratory system is the system in which various parts are involved with lungs as a major part for the process of respiration. The lungs are the largest organ in which air enters through the trachea into the lungs and exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place. Carbon dioxide is taken out of the lungs.
Apart from these there are epiglottis and diaphragm which are also involved in the respiration process.

Epiglottis: It is a leaf shaped valvular flap which is located behind the tongue at the top of the larynx or voice box. It is a covering or upper lid of glottis which helps in preventing the entry of food into the larynx during swallowing.
It is composed of cartilage and helps in performing various functions like:
-It prevents the entry of food in the windpipe and closes the windpipe while eating, so that the food is not accidently entered in the windpipe.
-It allows the passage of air from the pharynx to the larynx.

Diaphragm: It is the muscular dome shaped structure which is near the lungs and partitions the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity. It performs distinct functions like:
-During inhalation the diaphragm contracts which increases the volume of thoracic cavity in the antero-posterior axis that ultimately raises the ribs and sternum and the air moves inward. The diaphragm moves downward during inspiration.
-During exhalation the diaphragm relaxes which decreases the volume of the thoracic cavity and the diaphragm returns to its normal state. Ribs and sternum come back to their same position and the air starts moving outward. The diaphragm moves upward during expiration.

Note: The diaphragm is also helpful in many non -respiratory functions like vomiting, urination and defecation by enhancing the intra -abdominal pressure. It also helps in childbirth.