If the volume of the anatomical dead space is not changed by exercise, how much extra air entered the alveoli due to the exercise-induced increase in tidal volume?
About 200 mL
The anatomical dead space refers to the volume of air in the conducting airways (e.g. nasal cavity, trachea, bronchi, etc.) that does not participate in gas exchange with the alveoli (the tiny air sacs in the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged). This volume is usually around 150 mL in healthy adults.
Tidal volume refers to the amount of air that is inspired or expired during a normal breath. During exercise, tidal volume increases as a result of increased demand for oxygen by the working muscles.
To calculate the extra air that enters the alveoli due to the exercise-induced increase in tidal volume, we can use the following formula:
Extra air = Tidal volume – Anatomical dead space
Let’s assume that at rest, a person has a tidal volume of 500 mL and an anatomical dead space of 150 mL. During exercise, their tidal volume increases to 750 mL.
Using the formula above, we can calculate the extra air that enters the alveoli during exercise as follows:
Extra air = 750 mL – 150 mL
Extra air = 600 mL
Therefore, during exercise, an extra 600 mL of air enters the alveoli due to the increase in tidal volume, despite the fact that the anatomical dead space remains unchanged.
More Answers:
Understanding the Role of Capillaries in Gas Exchange within the Vascular System and TissuesUnleash the Power of Nitric Oxide: Enhance Blood Flow and Tissue Perfusion Through Vasodilation
Discover the Correlation Between Cardiac Output and Metabolic Rate in Science: Linear vs. Non-Linear Relationship.