Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

What is the average amount of air moved through the lungs every minute?

1. 2-4 liters

2. 5-8 liters

3. 10-12 liters

4. 3-6 liters

The correct answer is: 5-8 liters

The average amount of air moved through the lungs every minute is significantly influenced by several physiological factors, including the tidal volume and breathing rate of an individual. The correct choice states a range of 5-8 liters, which aligns with the typical minute ventilation of healthy adults at rest. In a resting state, a normal adult has a tidal volume (the amount of air inhaled or exhaled with each breath) of about 500 milliliters and a respiratory rate of 12 to 20 breaths per minute. When calculating minute ventilation (tidal volume multiplied by respiratory rate), this results in an average minute ventilation that often falls within the range of 5 to 8 liters. This amount can vary based on factors such as age, fitness level, and whether the individual is at rest or exercising, but the 5-8 liters range remains a commonly accepted standard for minute ventilation in healthy adults.