Recruitment

Definition

Recruitment is the process by which additional motor units are activated to increase the strength of muscle contraction. In the context of breathing, it involves the activation of more respiratory muscles to meet higher oxygen demands.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Recruitment allows for greater force generation in respiratory muscles during activities like exercise.
2. The diaphragm and intercostal muscles are primary targets of recruitment during increased respiratory effort.
3. Neural signals from the brainstem control recruitment to adjust breathing rates and volumes.
4. Recruitment can be influenced by factors such as blood CO2 levels and physical activity intensity.
5. Efficient recruitment is crucial for maintaining adequate ventilation and gas exchange under varying physiological conditions.

Review Questions

Related terms

Diaphragm: The primary muscle involved in breathing that contracts to allow air intake into the lungs

Intercostal Muscles: Muscles located between the ribs that assist with expanding and contracting the rib cage during breathing

Brainstem: The part of the brain responsible for controlling automatic functions like breathing through neural signals