What is the total lung capacity after maximum inhalation?

The total lung capacity (TLC) is a critical measure in respiratory physiology that represents the maximum volume of air that the lungs can hold after a maximum inhalation effort. It is composed of several components: the tidal volume (the amount of air inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing), the inspiratory reserve volume (the additional air that can be inhaled after a normal inhalation), the expiratory reserve volume (the additional air that can be exhaled after a normal exhalation), and the residual volume (the air remaining in the lungs after maximum exhalation).

In healthy adults, total lung capacity typically ranges from about 4800 mL to 6000 mL, depending on various factors such as body size, age, gender, and physical conditioning. The hallmark of option B, which indicates 6000 mL, aligns with the expected range for total lung capacity. This substantial volume reflects the lungs' ability to accommodate air during maximal inhalation.

The other values presented in the choices (3600 mL, 2400 mL, and 4800 mL) either fall below the expected normal range for total lung capacity or represent aspects of lung volume that do not encapsulate the complete capacity of