Chapter 23, Problem 20CP

Summary Introduction

To determine:

In what way the accumulation of fluid due to pneumonia in the alveoli of the lungs affects the vital capacity of the lungs.

Concept introduction:

The vital capacity of the lungs is the maximum volume of air that can be inspired or expired in a single respiratory cycle. It is the sum of tidal volume, expiratory reserve volume and the inspiratory reserve volume. It is about 4800 mL (milliliters) in males and 3400 mL in females.