What Is Your Lung Capacity?
Chapter 31: Respiratory and Circulatory Systems

The volume of air that you normally inhale and exhale in each breath is about 500 mL. The maximum volume of air that a person can inhale or exhale (your lung capacity) varies from person to person. Lung capacity is affected by factors such as body size, fitness level, and respiratory health. You can compare your lung capacity with that of your classmates when you…

Try This

---

1. You will need an empty round balloon, string, a metric ruler, and a partner. Take two normal breaths.
   
2. Take a third breath, this time inhaling as much air as you can. Exhale into the balloon, trying to empty as much air from your lungs as possible.
   
3. Hold the balloon closed while your partner wraps the string around the widest part to measure the circumference. Using a metric ruler, measure the length of string necessary to wrap around the balloon. Record the measurement.
   
4. Repeat steps 1–3, then switch roles with your partner. Compare your results with those of your classmates.
   

Analyze Your Results

---

1. Compare the two measurements of the circumference of the balloon. How did they differ?
2. Were there differences in the lung capacities of males and females? Explain your answer.
3. How does your lung capacity compare with the lung capacities of your classmates? Explain your answer.

TOP

Unit 8 Home Page