A simple spirometer cannot measure which of the following air volumes?
A) Tidal volume
B) Vital capacity
C) Residual volume
D) Expiratory reserve volume

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A simple spirometer can measure tidal volume (the volume of air inhaled and exhaled during normal breathing) and expiratory reserve volume (the additional volume of air that can be exhaled forcefully after a normal exhalation). It can also estimate vital capacity (the maximum volume of air that can be exhaled after a maximal inhalation). However, a simple spirometer cannot measure residual volume (the volume of air remaining in the lungs after a maximal exhalation) because this volume cannot be exhaled voluntarily.

A Simple Spirometer Cannot Measure Which of the Following Air