Lung function experiments

MONASH University 

 Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences
BackgroundTidal volumeForced vital capacityObstructive diseaseRestrictive diseaseDead spaceExercise & ventilation
Introduction Maximum voluntary ventilation Maximum Exercise

Activity 6 - Exercise and Ventilation

In this final part of this simulation, we will compare pulmonary ventilation rate, tidal volume and breathing frequency at rest, during exercise, and during a period of maximum voluntary ventilation.

Maximum Voluntary Ventilation (MVV), also referred to as maximum breathing capacity or maximum minute ventilation, provides a measure of the maximum ability of the airways and thoracic muscles to move air in to and out of the lungs. MVV depends on body size, the forces generated by the respiratory muscles (both inspiratory and expiratory), the mechanical properties of the thoracic wall (rib cage and diaphragm) and upon airway resistance. Psychological factors are also involved (e.g., motivation).

In healthy young males, the mean MVV is about 140 l/min (range 100-180 l/min). For females, the mean is about 100 l/min (range 70-120 l/min). During rest and exercise, ventilation is driven by the rate of oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production, whereas during the MVV procedure ventilation is driven by non-respiratory factors, i.e. higher brain centres.

1. Maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV)

Mobile Support Warning

This simulation was designed with a desktop interface in mind, and may not function correctly on smaller screens or mobile devices.

In this section the subject was breathing as fast and as vigorously as possible for 15 to 20 seconds during which time respiratory data were recorded. Use the following trace to calculate the subjects’ tidal volume, the breathing frequency and the ventilation.

Use the trace to calculate the subjects’ tidal volume, breathing frequency and ventilation.

 

 

 

Congrats! You got everything correct.

2. Maximum exercise

Mobile Support Warning

This simulation was designed with a desktop interface in mind, and may not function correctly on smaller screens or mobile devices.

The trace below for exercise was taken just after the subject completed vigorous exercise. Use the trace to calculate the subjects’ tidal volume, the breathing frequency and the ventilation.

Use the trace to calculate the subjects’ tidal volume, breathing frequency and ventilation.

 

 

 

Congrats! You got everything correct.

© 2023 Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University
Developed by Glitch Taylor under the direction of Prof. Ramesh Rajan
All queries should be directed to physiol-sim@monash.edu