Which of the following correctly describes inspiratory capacity?

Which of the following correctly describes inspiratory capacity?

• A. The total volume of air in the lungs
• B. The sum of expiratory reserve volume and tidal volume
• C. The sum of inspiratory reserve volume and tidal volume
• D. The volume of air remaining in the lungs after maximal expiration

Answer: (C)

Inspiratory capacity is defined as the maximum volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal expiration. It is the sum of two specific lung volumes: the tidal volume, which is the amount of air breathed in and out during normal breathing, and the inspiratory reserve volume, which is the additional air that can be inhaled after taking a normal breath. By focusing on the definition, it becomes clear that option C is correct as it directly encompasses these two components. Understanding inspiratory capacity in this manner allows for a better grasp of lung function and how various volumes and capacities work together in respiratory physiology. The other options address different lung volumes that do not accurately represent the definition of inspiratory capacity.

Inspiratory capacity is defined as the maximum volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal expiration. It is the sum of two specific lung volumes: the tidal volume, which is the amount of air breathed in and out during normal breathing, and the inspiratory reserve volume, which is the additional air that can be inhaled after taking a normal breath.

By focusing on the definition, it becomes clear that option C is correct as it directly encompasses these two components. Understanding inspiratory capacity in this manner allows for a better grasp of lung function and how various volumes and capacities work together in respiratory physiology. The other options address different lung volumes that do not accurately represent the definition of inspiratory capacity.