Here's a breakdown of how it works:
* Inhalation:
* The diaphragm, a large muscle under the lungs, contracts and moves downward.
* This increases the volume of the chest cavity, creating negative pressure within the lungs.
* Air flows into the lungs through the nose, trachea (windpipe), and bronchi (airways branching into the lungs).
* Exhalation:
* The diaphragm relaxes and moves upward, decreasing the volume of the chest cavity.
* This increases the pressure within the lungs, forcing air out through the same airways.
Unique adaptations:
* Large lungs: Wolves have large lungs relative to their body size, allowing them to take in more oxygen and sustain strenuous activity like hunting or running long distances.
* Efficient oxygen utilization: Wolves have a higher density of red blood cells than other animals, which helps them efficiently carry oxygen throughout their bodies.
* Sniffing: Wolves have an extremely sensitive sense of smell. They use their nostrils to inhale and exhale, constantly drawing in scents from the environment.
Interesting fact: Wolves have a unique adaptation called a "glottis," which is a small opening in the back of their throat. They can temporarily close this opening while swimming, allowing them to stay submerged for longer periods.