outbreaths

An outbreath, also known as exhalation, is the expulsion of air from the lungs. It is a fundamental component of the respiratory cycle, working in conjunction with inhalation. During an outbreath, the diaphragm relaxes and moves upward, and the intercostal muscles contract, decreasing the volume of the thoracic cavity. This reduction in volume increases the pressure within the lungs, forcing air out. The composition of exhaled air differs from inhaled air; it contains a higher concentration of carbon dioxide and water vapor, and a lower concentration of oxygen. Carbon dioxide is a waste product of cellular respiration and is eliminated from the body through exhalation. The process of outbreathing is largely involuntary, controlled by the respiratory center in the brainstem. However, it can also be consciously controlled, allowing for practices such as controlled breathing exercises or speech. The rate and depth of outbreathing can vary significantly depending on factors such as physical activity, emotional state, and environmental conditions. For instance, during strenuous exercise, the rate of both inhalation and outbreathing increases to meet the body's higher oxygen demand and to remove excess carbon dioxide.