Question

The vital capacity of lungs is equal to

• A. $4000 \,mL$
• B. $6000\, mL$
• C. $5000\, mL$
• D. $7000 \,mL$

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

The vital capacity equals the inspiratory reserve volume $(IRV)$ plus the tidal volume $(TV)$ plus the expiratory reserve volume $(ERV)$. This is the maximum amount of air a person can expel from the lungs after first filling the lungs to their maximum extent and then expiring to the maximum extent (about $4600$ milliliters).