Which statement correctly defines residual volume?

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Multiple Choice

Which statement correctly defines residual volume?

Residual volume is the air left in the lungs after you have blown out as hard as you can. This remaining air is what keeps the lungs from collapsing between breaths and helps maintain a continuous gas exchange current, even when you’ve exhaled fully. It’s distinct from tidal volume (the air moved in and out during a normal breath), inspiratory reserve volume (extra air you can inhale beyond a normal inspiration), and expiratory reserve volume (extra air you can exhale beyond a normal expiration). The total lung capacity is the sum of all lung volumes, including residual volume, but residual volume itself cannot be expelled with a maximal exhale.

Residual volume is the air left in the lungs after you have blown out as hard as you can. This remaining air is what keeps the lungs from collapsing between breaths and helps maintain a continuous gas exchange current, even when you’ve exhaled fully. It’s distinct from tidal volume (the air moved in and out during a normal breath), inspiratory reserve volume (extra air you can inhale beyond a normal inspiration), and expiratory reserve volume (extra air you can exhale beyond a normal expiration). The total lung capacity is the sum of all lung volumes, including residual volume, but residual volume itself cannot be expelled with a maximal exhale.

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