Physiologic Dead Space(Tidal Volume)

The Physiological Tidal Volume calculator computes the tidal volume based on the dead space volume and the alveolar volume.

INSTRUCTIONS: Choose units and enter the following:

• (V_D) Physiological Dead Space
• (V_A) Alveolar Volume

Physiological Tidal Volume (VT):  The calculator returns the volume in milliliters.  However this can be automatically converted to compatible units via the pull-down menu.

The Math / Science

The formula for Physiological Tidal Volume is:

    V_T = V_D + V_A

where:

• (V_T) Tidal Volume
• (V_D) Physiological Dead Space
• (V_A) Alveolar Volume

In physiology, dead space is the volume of air which is inhaled that does not take part in the gas exchange, either because it (1) remains in the conducting airways, or (2) reaches alveoli that are not perfused or poorly perfused. In other words, not all the air in each breath is available for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Mammals breathe in and out of their lungs, wasting that part of the inspiration which remains in the conducting airways where no gas exchange can occur.

Respiratory Calculators

• Physiologic Dead Space (Bohr Method)
• Tidal Volume
• Minute Ventilation