What term describes normal air expelled and taken in by an adult?

Tidal volume refers to the amount of air that is inhaled or exhaled during normal, resting breathing in an adult. It is a key component in understanding respiratory function and is measured in milliliters. For an average adult, tidal volume typically ranges from about 500 mL per breath. This indicates the regular exchange of gases necessary for maintaining adequate oxygen levels and removing carbon dioxide from the lungs without excessive effort.

Vital capacity, while important, measures the maximum amount of air a person can inhale after a maximum exhalation, and does not represent normal breathing patterns. Residual volume is the air remaining in the lungs after a forceful exhalation, which helps keep the lungs inflated and plays no role in the normal intake and expulsion of air. Inspiratory reserve is the additional amount of air that can be inhaled after a normal inhalation but does not pertain to the regular volume of air exchanged during normal breathing. Understanding tidal volume is essential for assessing respiratory health and function.