Question

What is residual volume? Why is it important​

Answer 1

Residual volume is the amount of gas remaining in the lungs at the end of a maximal exhalation. Residual Volume is important because it prevents the lungs from collapsing. Even after we have expelled as much air as possible (expiratory reserve volume) gaseous exchange is still occurring by residual volume in the lungs.

Answer 2

Medical Definition of residual volume. : the volume of air still remaining in the lungs after the most forcible expiration possible and amounting usually to 60 to 100 cubic inches (980 to 1640 cubic centimeters) — called also residual air. — compare supplemental air.....

Residual Volume is important because it prevents the lungs from collapsing. Even after we have expelled as much air as possible (expiratory reserve volume) gaseous exchange is still occurring by residual volume in the lungs. It also prevents the inner surfaces of the lungs sticking together.