Alveolar Ventilation 4 L/min — FRCA Primary MCQ

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EasyPhysiology - RespiratoryAlveolar Ventilation 4 L/minFRCA Primary

Regarding respiratory physiology the normal alveolar ventilation rate is approximately:

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Correct answer: D — 4 L/min

Alveolar ventilation (VA) = (TV - VD) × RR = (500 - 150) × 12 = 4200 mL/min ≈ 4 L/min. This is the effective ventilation participating in gas exchange. The remaining ~2 L/min of minute ventilation (~6 L/min) ventilates the dead space. VA determines PaCO2: PaCO2 = VCO2/VA × K.

Reference: Power Kam 2018 Principles of Physiology for the Anaesthetist