Common Ventilatory Parameters

Question 1

Volume of air inspired and expired with normal breath

Answer 1

Tidal volume

Question 2

Volume of gas left in lung after normal expiration; stabilizes alveoli

Answer 2

Residual volume

Question 3

Maximal air that can be expired after a maximal inspiratory effort

Answer 3

Vital capacity

Question 4

Volume of air left in lungs after normal expiration

Answer 4

functional residual capacity

Question 5

Volume of air forcibly exhaled per unit time

Answer 5

forced expiratory flow rate

Question 6

Highest rate of flow sustained for 10msec or more at which air can be expelled from the lungs

Answer 6

peak expiratory flow rate