Do Not Take This Lab!!!

Lung Capacity

We need a constant supply of oxygen in order to stay alive. We use oxygen to break down food to release energy in our cells and produce carbon dioxide as a waste product. The respiratory system functions to filter, warm, and humidify the air we breathe, and to supply cells with oxygen. Lung capacities may differ with age, body frame, and aerobic fitness. Measuring your lung capacity can help you determine how much stamina you have available to go about your daily routine, including sports and other activities. It is also possible for you to increase your lung capacity through regular exercise. Your lung capacity may be affected by certain disorders such as asthma and emphysema. Cigarette smoking will give you noticeable signs of emphysema after only three years of use. In this lab you will use a Spirometer to measure your Vital Lung Capacity (VLC). A Spirometer is an instrument used to record measurements of air movements in the human respiratory system. Vital Lung Capacity is the maximum amount of air a person can move into and out of her/his lungs. Theoretical Lung Capacity is the amount of air you should be able to move into and out of your lungs. The Spirometer measures Vital Lung Capacity in Liters of air. You will then calculate your Theoretical Lung Capacity and compare it to your Vital Lung Capacity.