What term describes the maximum amount of air a person can expel from the lungs after maximal inhalation?

• A. Functional residual capacity
• B. Tidal volume
• C. Vital capacity
• D. Expiratory reserve volume

Answer: (C)

The term that describes the maximum amount of air a person can expel from the lungs after maximal inhalation is known as vital capacity. Vital capacity is an important measure of respiratory health and lung function, as it encompasses the total volume of air that can be forcibly exhaled after breathing in as deeply as possible. This measurement reflects the capability of the lungs to hold and expel air, which is essential for effective gas exchange.

Functional residual capacity refers to the amount of air remaining in the lungs after a normal exhalation, while tidal volume represents the amount of air breathed in or out during a typical breath at rest. Expiratory reserve volume is the amount of additional air that can be forcibly exhaled after the end of a normal exhalation. These terms, while related to lung function and volume, do not describe the maximum volume expelled after a deep inhalation, which is specifically what vital capacity indicates.