Vital capacity
Vital Capacity
Vital capacity (pronunciation: /ˈvaɪtəl kəˈpæsɪti/) is a term used in pulmonology to describe the maximum amount of air a person can expel from the lungs after a maximum inhalation. It is an important measure in respiratory health.
Etymology
The term "vital capacity" originates from the Latin words vita meaning "life" and capacitas meaning "capacity". It was first used in the early 20th century to describe the volume of air that can be expelled from the lungs, which is vital for life.
Definition
Vital capacity is the total amount of air that can be exhaled after maximal inhalation. It is measured in milliliters (ml). The average vital capacity for adult males is approximately 4800 ml, and for adult females, it is approximately 3400 ml. However, these values can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, and body size.
Measurement
Vital capacity is typically measured using a device called a spirometer. The person takes a deep breath and then exhales as much air as possible into the spirometer. The device then measures the volume of air exhaled.
Related Terms
- Tidal Volume: The amount of air inhaled or exhaled during a normal breath.
- Inspiratory Reserve Volume: The maximum amount of air that can be inhaled after a normal inhalation.
- Expiratory Reserve Volume: The maximum amount of air that can be exhaled after a normal exhalation.
- Residual Volume: The amount of air left in the lungs after a maximal exhalation.
- Total Lung Capacity: The total volume of the lungs, calculated as the sum of the vital capacity and the residual volume.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Vital capacity
- Wikipedia's article - Vital capacity
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