Vital Capacity (Noun)
Meaning
The maximum amount of air that can be exhaled after a maximum inhalation (usually tested with a spirometer); used to determine the condition of lung tissue.
Classification
Nouns denoting quantities and units of measure.
Examples
- The doctor ordered a test to measure my vital capacity to check for any potential lung damage from years of smoking.
- Athletes often have a higher vital capacity than non-athletes, which can be an advantage in endurance sports.
- The patient's vital capacity had decreased significantly since her last test, indicating a progression of her chronic lung disease.
- To accurately measure a person's vital capacity, it is essential to use a calibrated spirometer and follow proper testing procedures.
- Researchers used vital capacity as one of the variables to assess the overall respiratory health of the study participants.