During exhalation, the rib cage:

Options

A. moves upward and outwards
B. moves downward and inwards
C. moves from side to side
D. does not move at all

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Exhalation:**
- Exhalation is the process of breathing out air from the lungs. During this process, the body expels carbon dioxide and other gases.

2. **Role of the Rib Cage:**
- The rib cage plays a crucial role in the mechanics of breathing. It protects the lungs and helps in the expansion and contraction during inhalation and exhalation.

3. **Changes During Exhalation:**
- When we exhale, the volume of the lungs decreases as the air is pushed out. This decrease in lung volume causes the rib cage to move.

4. **Movement of the Rib Cage:**
- During exhalation, the rib cage moves downward and inward. This movement helps to push the air out of the lungs effectively.

5. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, during exhalation, the rib cage moves downward and inward.

**Final Answer:**
- During exhalation, the rib cage moves downward and inward.

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