What is the medical term for the process of breathing in?

Inhalation is the medical term specifically used to describe the process of breathing in. During inhalation, air enters the lungs, facilitating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. This process is essential for providing oxygen to the body, which is necessary for cellular metabolism and energy production. Understanding the mechanics of inhalation is important in various fields, including medicine and health sciences, as it relates to respiratory function and overall health.

In contrast, expiration refers to the act of breathing out, while exhalation is often used interchangeably with expiration. Respiration encompasses the broader process of gas exchange, which includes both inhalation and exhalation. Thus, inhalation specifically addresses the intake of air, making it the correct choice in this context.