Why lungs have more negative intrapleural pressure at the apex

[keep@science]

Main Question or Discussion Point

in some books it is written that it is because of gravity but i can't understand how gravity can cause such a effect

 

[berkeman]

in some books it is written that it is because of gravity but i can't understand how gravity can cause such a effect

Can you provide a link that discusses this?

 

[berkeman]

I think I know the answer, and it wouldn't have to do with gravity...

http://www.interactivephysiology.com/login/digestdemo/misc/assignmentfiles/respiratory/Pulmonary_Ventilation.pdf

 

[Fervent Freyja]

Biology textbooks rarely use the term gravity to explain mechanisms and Professors don't always take kindly to students using vocabulary or concepts from other disciplines...

The external intercostal muscles are fixed on the superior end of the ribs, the ribcage is pulled upwards upon contraction, which increases negative pressure. Looking at a diagram may help you understand (or take A & P I). It is difficult to understand functions in the body without visual models to show relations, it certainly isn't something you can easily get by only reading text.