Which skeletal muscle serves as an accessory respiratory muscle?
A) rectus abdominus.
B) diaphragm.
C) external intercostal.
D) internal intercostal.
E) none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rectus abdominus assists in the forced expiration phase of breathing by compressing the abdominal cavity and pushing the diaphragm upward. Therefore, it serves as an accessory respiratory muscle. The diaphragm is not considered an accessory respiratory muscle as it is the main muscle responsible for inspiration. The external intercostal muscles are also involved in inspiration and are not considered accessory respiratory muscles. The internal intercostal muscles are involved in forced expiration, but are not typically considered accessory respiratory muscles.

Which Skeletal Muscle Serves as an Accessory Respiratory Muscle