What is the volume of additional air that can be forcibly inhaled after a normal inhalation called?

The volume of additional air that can be forcibly inhaled after a normal inhalation is known as the inspiratory reserve volume. This volume represents the amount of air that can be inhaled beyond the tidal volume, which is the amount of air typically inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing.

During a normal inhalation, the lungs fill with a specific amount of air, but they aren't filled to their maximum capacity. The inspiratory reserve volume demonstrates the potential for the lungs to accommodate more air when needed, such as during strenuous physical activity or respiratory distress.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for studying respiratory function because it illustrates the lung's ability to expand and the capacity for additional inhalation beyond what is normally required during rest.