What is residual volume?

Residual volume refers specifically to the volume of air that remains in the lungs after a person has exhaled as forcefully and completely as possible. This volume is important because it prevents the lungs from completely collapsing and ensures that there is always some air remaining in the alveoli, which facilitates gas exchange between the lungs and bloodstream.

Understanding residual volume is crucial in respiratory physiology, as it helps to maintain a consistent supply of oxygen and removal of carbon dioxide, even between breaths. This characteristic of residual volume also influences overall lung capacity and functioning, as it contributes to the total lung capacity, which includes various components such as tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, and expiratory reserve volume.

The other choices describe different respiratory processes and volumes, but they do not specifically define residual volume, which is characterized by the air left in the lungs after exhalation.