Measuring Lung
Volumes
Spirometers
Spirometers are used to measure lung volumes
Consist of an airtight chamber filled with oxygen
Subject breathes in and out of tubes until the oxygen is used up
A pen is attached to the lid which moves up and downs as the subject breathes
The pen draws a trace on a revolving drum
A canister of soda lime removes carbon dioxide produced so the overall trace decreases
over time
Lung Volumes
Tidal volume = the volume of air moved by the lungs at rest
Vital capacity = the maximum volume of air moved out after a maximal inspiration
Residual volume = the amount of air left in the lungs after a maximal expiration
Breathing rate = breathes per minute
Volumes
Spirometers
Spirometers are used to measure lung volumes
Consist of an airtight chamber filled with oxygen
Subject breathes in and out of tubes until the oxygen is used up
A pen is attached to the lid which moves up and downs as the subject breathes
The pen draws a trace on a revolving drum
A canister of soda lime removes carbon dioxide produced so the overall trace decreases
over time
Lung Volumes
Tidal volume = the volume of air moved by the lungs at rest
Vital capacity = the maximum volume of air moved out after a maximal inspiration
Residual volume = the amount of air left in the lungs after a maximal expiration
Breathing rate = breathes per minute
