During which stage of breathing does the diaphragm relax?

During exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes, allowing the lungs to expel air. The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle that contracts during inhalation, which increases the volume of the thoracic cavity and pulls air into the lungs. When exhalation occurs, the diaphragm relaxes and moves back to its original position, reducing the thoracic cavity volume and pushing air out of the lungs. This process relies on the elastic recoil of the lung tissues and the abdominal muscles, facilitating the release of carbon dioxide-rich air. Understanding the mechanics of breathing is crucial for grasping respiratory physiology, particularly how the diaphragm and other muscles work together during the different phases of breathing.