Final answer:
The sum of tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, and expiratory reserve volume corresponds to the vital capacity of the lungs, important for assessing respiratory health. Option c is the correct answer since it lists these three volumes and excludes the residual volume, which is not part of vital capacity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The combination of tidal volume (TV), inspiratory reserve volume (IRV), and expiratory reserve volume (ERV) equates to the lung's vital capacity (VC). The tidal volume refers to the amount of air that is inspired and expired during normal breathing, which is approximately 500 milliliters.
The inspiratory reserve volume is the additional air that can be inhaled after a normal inhalation, while the expiratory reserve volume is the extra air that can be exhaled forcefully after a normal exhalation.
The total lung capacity (TLC) includes all four volumes: residual volume, expiratory reserve volume, tidal volume, and inspiratory reserve volume. Respiratory capacities, such as the vital capacity and total lung capacity, are important measurements that provide insight into a person's respiratory health.
Concerning the options provided, option c (expiratory reserve volume + tidal volume + inspiratory reserve volume) is the correct choice that represents the vital capacity (VC), as it encompasses the sum of ERV, TV, and IRV.