GLOSSARY

A physiological function is the contribution of a cell, tissue, organ or system to what the body does. The diaphragm contributes to ventilation: its contraction increases thoracic volume and helps produce inward airflow.

A function should be interpreted in context. Quiet breathing and strenuous exercise make different demands on the respiratory muscles. Describing the diaphragm’s contribution to ventilation states its function; tracing the volume and pressure changes explains its mechanism.

Further reading: OpenStax — Overview of Anatomy and Physiology · OpenStax — The Process of Breathing