Are the lungs muscular or elastic?

The lungs are elastic. The elastic properties of the lungs are essential for the process of breathing. When you inhale, the diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract, which increases the volume of the thoracic cavity and pulls on the lungs. This causes the lungs to expand, which in turn reduces the pressure inside the lungs. As a result, air flows from the atmosphere into the lungs. When you exhale, the diaphragm and intercostal muscles relax, which reduces the volume of the thoracic cavity and compresses the lungs. This increases the pressure inside the lungs, which forces air out of the lungs.