residual volume

(physiology) Air remaining in the lungs after the most complete expiration possible; it is elevated in diffuse obstructive emphysema and during an attack of asthma. Also known as residual air.

The volume of air in the lungs at the end of maximum expiration.

The volume of air remaining in the lungs at the end of maximal expiration; a typical value is 1200 ml. The residual volume (RV) equals the difference between the total lung capacity (TLC) and vital capacity (VC): RV = TLC − VC.

The volume of air remaining in the lungs after a maximal expiratory effort. Also called residual air, residual capacity.