Multiple choice

Lung capacity is defined as the maximum air which can be held in the lungs at any given time. Which among the following has the minimum value?

  1. Alveolar air

  2. Residual air

  3. Inspiratory reserve volume

  4. Expiratory reserve volume

  5. Vital capacity

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

Alveolar air is the gas in the pulmonary alveoli, where O2-CO2 exchange with pulmonary capillary blood occurs. Some amount of air remains in the various parts of the respiratory tract. The air in the trachea and bronchi (where no diffusion occurs) is called dead space air (350 ml). The air remaining in the alveoli or air sacs is alveolar air (150 ml).