Master the A Level Biology Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to ace your test. Start your journey to excellence!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What is the vital capacity in relation to breathing?

  1. The amount of air left in the lungs after exhalation

  2. The maximum air intake after a strong exhalation

  3. The minimum air required for survival

  4. The standard volume of air for normal breathing

The correct answer is: The maximum air intake after a strong exhalation

Vital capacity refers to the maximum amount of air that can be exhaled after taking the deepest possible breath. It is an important measure in respiratory health, indicating the function and capacity of the lungs. The correct choice indicates that it reflects the maximum air intake after a strong exhalation, which supports the understanding that it encompasses the total volume of air that can be forcefully exhaled following a maximum inhalation. In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent vital capacity. The amount of air left in the lungs after exhalation describes residual volume, while the minimum air required for survival typically pertains to tidal volume or minimum ventilation needs. The standard volume of air for normal breathing refers to tidal volume, which is much smaller than vital capacity.