The ribs enclose the thoracic cavity providing bony protection for the vital organs of the thorax-the heart and lungs.
Because the thorax must expand and contract to allow breathing, the ribs move slightly in a "bucket handle" type of motion with each breath.
Therefore the ribs are involved with breathing.
Diaphragm
diaphragm
Ribs are for protection i think and diaphragm is the muscle controlling inhaling and exhaling. Also: the rib muscles can help the breathing process, which is useful when the diaphragm is weak, constricted, or to get an extra-big breath. Breathing from the diaphragm makes the belly move in and out as the lungs extend downwards. Breathing from the rib muscles makes the chest expand and rise.
diaphragm....
The ribs are movable bones that play a role in breathing by expanding and contracting to help the lungs fill with air and expel it. The flexibility in the ribcage allows for the movement needed for respiration.
The muscle that plays the main role is the diaphragm.:)
The stems involved in breathing: the ribs, intercostal muscles, diaphragm as well as the lungs and the tubes which bring air into the body from the outside.
Diaphragm.
The larynx or voice box provides a passage. but the alveoli help
Your diaphragm lowers and your ribs expand outwards
The thoracic diaphragm, where its contraction assists inhalation and relaxation assists exhalation plays a main role in altering the lung's volume and air pressure inside, contributing to the process of respiration. Many other muscles are involved in both raising and lowering the ribcage, and any stomach muscles involved assist in exhalation.
Im not expert, but isn't it the diaphragm and rib muscles, the muscles between the ribs, internal and external intercostals.