Respiratory Volumes and Capacities

These flashcards cover the key concepts of respiratory volumes and capacities, outlining definitions and calculations pertinent to adults.

Tidal volume (TV)

Amount of air inhaled or exhaled with each breath under resting conditions.

Inspiratory reserve volume (IRV)

Amount of air that can be forcefully inhaled after a normal tidal volume inspiration.

Expiratory reserve volume (ERV)

Amount of air that can be forcefully exhaled after a normal tidal volume expiration.

Residual volume (RV)

Amount of air remaining in the lungs after a forced expiration.

Total lung capacity (TLC)

Maximum amount of air contained in lungs after a maximum inspiratory effort: TLC = TV + IRV + ERV + RV.

Vital capacity (VC)

Maximum amount of air that can be expired after a maximum inspiratory effort: VC = TV + IRV + ERV.

Inspiratory capacity (IC)

Maximum amount of air that can be inspired after a normal tidal volume expiration: IC = TV + IRV.

Functional residual capacity (FRC)

Volume of air remaining in the lungs after a normal tidal volume expiration: FRC=ERV + RV.