The inspiratory capacity is a total of what two pulmonary volumes?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The inspiratory capacity is the maximum volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal exhalation. It is the sum of tidal volume and inspiratory reserve volume. Tidal volume is the volume of air inhaled and exhaled during normal breathing, while inspiratory reserve volume is the additional air that can be inhaled after a normal inhalation. Therefore, the correct answer is A.
Summary of why other choices are incorrect:
B: Vital capacity is the maximum volume of air that can be exhaled after a maximum inhalation. It does not include tidal volume, so this choice is incorrect.
C: Vital capacity includes inspiratory reserve volume, not tidal volume, so this choice is incorrect.
D: Residual volume is the volume of air remaining in the lungs after maximal exhalation, not part of inspiratory capacity. Tidal volume is the only correct component in this choice.