Question

With reference to human respiration, which is correct?

• A. Pulmonary ventilation is equal to alveolar ventilation
• B. Alveolar ventilation is more than pulmonary ventilation
• C. Alveolar ventilation is less than pulmonary ventilation
• D. Pulmonary ventilation is less than alveolar ventilation

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Pulmonary ventilation is a measure of the rate of ventilation, referring to the total exchange of air between the lungs and the ambient air. In a normal adult, it is about 6.0 liters per minute. Alveolar ventilation is a fraction of the pulmonary ventilation, it is the amount of air that reaches the alveoli and is available for gaseous exchange with the blood. In a normal adult, it is about 4.2 liters per minute.