Question

multiple choice question
during inhalation, the external intercostal muscles ______ the ribs.
elevate
depress

Explanation:

During inhalation, the external intercostal muscles contract. This contraction causes the ribs to move upward and outward (elevate). Elevating the ribs increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, which is essential for the process of inhalation as it creates a pressure gradient that allows air to flow into the lungs. Depressing the ribs (which would be the action of internal intercostal muscles during exhalation) would decrease the thoracic cavity volume.

Answer:

elevate