Answer
The intercostal muscles are morphologically and functionally skeletal muscles, and the primary effect of their contraction is to displace the ribs.
Work Step by Step
The intercostal muscles are morphologically and functionally skeletal muscles, and the primary effect of their contraction is to displace the ribs and alter the configuration of the rib cage. Due to the role intercostal muscles play in elevating the ribs and expanding the chest cavity, their contraction must be triggered in order to allow for timely access to the lungs.
