Vital capacity
What Vital capacity means in Physical Education A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Vital capacity
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Vital capacity in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The largest volume that can be forcibly expired after a maximal inspiration, distinct from one resting breath.
The largest volume exhaled after a maximal inspiration, combining tidal volume with both reserve volumes.
Topics that use Vital capacity
- Respiratory system (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Airway narrowing
- Alveolar and muscle exchange
- Baroreceptor
- Baroreceptors
- Carbon monoxide, oxygen transport and aerobic capacity
- Chemoreceptor
- Chemoreceptors
- Chemoreceptors and sensory detection
Using Vital capacity in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physical Education questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge