Human and Social Biology

May 17 2022

Lung Volumes

The tidal volume (TV) is the amount of air you breathe in and out at rest and in most people this is about
500cm3.You can always breathe in more than this.

 Inspiratory server volume (IRV) is the total extra air you can breathe in.
 Expiratory serve volume (ESV) is the total extra air you can breathe out.
 Vital capacity (VC) is the maximum amount of air you can blow out after breathing in as much air
as possible.

Vital capacity = Volume Tidal + Inspiratory reserve Volume (IRV) + Expiratory reserve Volume (ERV)

VC = TV + IRV + ERV

Your total lung capacity is the total amount of air that your lungs can hold after the biggest possible
breathe in. The average total lung capacity is about 600cm3. These capacities vary considerately with
body size and fitness

Factors that affect the rate of breathing

 Exercise
 Anxiety
 Drugs and alcohol
 Environmental factors e.g.: level of carbon dioxide in the air
 Altitude
 Obesity and over weight
 Smoking and vaping