Chapter 22, Problem 1RQ

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The phrenic nerves cutting will result in

(a) air entering the pleural cavity,

(b) paralysis of the diaphragm,

(c) stimulation of the diaphragmatic reflex,

(d) paralysis of the epiglottis.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

Solution:

(b) Paralysis of the diaphragm

Explanation of Solution

The phrenic nerves begin at the neck and move down between the lungs and heart. They then finally reach the diaphragm. These nerves are crucial for breathing because they transfer the motor information to the diaphragm. The pleural cavity does not consist of phrenic nerves. The laryngeal nerves are present in the epiglottis.