What is the term for the air volume inspired or expired after each normal breath?

The term that refers to the air volume inspired or expired after each normal breath is known as tidal volume. This is a fundamental concept in respiratory physiology, indicating the amount of air that is exchanged with each breath during normal, resting breathing. Tidal volume is crucial for understanding overall lung function and gas exchange in the body.

In contrast to tidal volume, inspiratory capacity refers to the maximum amount of air that can be inhaled after a normal expiration, which encompasses not just tidal volume but also the additional volume of air that can be inhaled with effort. Vital capacity represents the total amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled after a maximal inhalation, encompassing the sum of tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, and expiratory reserve volume. Expiratory reserve volume, on the other hand, is the amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled after a normal expiration, which indicates more specifically the additional volume of air that can be expelled.

Understanding tidal volume as a distinct measure helps in assessing pulmonary health and respiratory mechanics, making it a foundational component of respiratory physiology.