• The volume of air within the lungs of an individual will change depending on their level of activity
  • When at rest, breathing is shallow and steady
  • When exercising, breathing is deeper and more frequent

   

• The volume of air inspired per breath when at rest is the?tidal volume
• The?breathing rate?is the number of breaths taken per minute
• Using the results from a spirometer a trace can be created to show the volume changes in the lungs

The changes in the volume of air present in the lungs are shown here. Note the residual volume, this is the volume of air left in the lungs after as much air has been breathed out as possible.

Calculating the Pulmonary Ventilation Rate

• The?volume of air breathed (in OR out) in one minute?is known as the?pulmonary ventilation rate
• It is calculated by multiplying the tidal volume by the breathing rate

PVR = tidal volume x breathing rate

Step One: Rearrange the equation

PVR = tidal volume x breathing rate

Rearange to:

Tidal volume = PVR ÷ breathing rate

Step Two: Insert relevant figures

Tidal volume = 7.4 ÷ 12 = 0.6166

Tidal volume = 0.62 dm3