The muscles of inspiration cause expansion of chest and
increase the elastic coil of chest wall.This makes the intrapleural
pressure more negative that helps in expansion of lungs due to
which the air is sucked in.
The inspiratory muscles are divided into two categories
: primary muscles are : The diaphragm and external intercostal
muscles. Secondary muscles are :
scalenes,sternocleidomastoid,muscles of upper respiratory tract
etc.
When inspiration ends,the inspiratory muscles relax,the
rib cage drops and the thoracic volume decreases.The elastic coil
of lungs is now unopposed,which helps lungs to deflate.this results
in expiration.
The Expiratory muscles are : Abdominal muscles,The
internal intercostals,Neck and back muscles.