Observe a Model of How the Lungs Work in a Vacuum

NAME

PERIOD DATE

INTRODUCTION

The amount of air that you move in and out of your lungs while breathing normally is called TIDAL VOLUME. This amount of air provides enough oxygen for a person who is resting. It is possible to inhale and exhale more forcefully - the maximum amount of air moved in and out of the lungs is called the VITAL CAPACITY. If you have any breathing difficulties (asthma or other condition), you should not participate in this activity, instead only take the data on your lab partner or group.

OBJECTIVES

·  Determine your average lung capacity

·  Observe a model of how the lungs work in a vacuum

MATERIALS tape measure calculator

Balloon bell jar

PROCEDURE – PART I – LUNG CAPACITY

1.  Take as deep a breath as possible and exhale all the air you can into the balloon. Pinch the balloon to prevent air from escaping. The largest amount of air that can be exhaled after drawing in a deep breath is called vital capacity.

2.  Have your partner fit the string around the widest part of the balloon.

3.  Measure the length, in centimeters, of string used to go around the balloon. Record your results in the table below.

4.  Repeat steps 1 à 3 two more times and calculate the average circumference.

5.  Calculate the average radius of the balloon by dividing the average circumference by 2p or 6.28.

6.  Vital capacity can be determined using the balloon radius in the following formula:

7.  Lung capacity is calculated by adding your vital capacity and the residual volume. Residual volume is the amount of air in your lungs that cannot be expelled and that keeps your lungs from collapsing. Residual volume is about 1000 mL for women and 1200 mL for men.

8.  Using your average vital capacity, calculate your approximate lung capacity. Record in the table below.

PROCEDURE – PART II – BELL JAR

1.  Examine the bell jar model of the lungs at the link below:

http://youtu.be/4_pR28jU1Ok

2.  Identify which parts of the respiratory system the bell jar represents:

3.  Describe the relationship between the diaphragm and the lungs in the boxes below:

Diaphragm contracts
(pull down) / Diaphragm expands (push up)

ANALYSIS AND CONCLUSION (Use complete sentences.)

1.  In general, how does male lung capacity compare to female lung capacity?

2.  Identify two disorders/disease that adversing impact lung capaicty.

3.  Explain how are alveoli affected by smoking?

4.  What are some exercises or activities you could participate in to improve your lung capacity?