Understand the concept of vital capacity: Vital capacity is the maximum amount of air a person can expel from the lungs after a maximum inhalation.
Identify the components of lung volumes: Tidal volume (TV), Inspiratory reserve volume (IRV), and Expiratory reserve volume (ERV) are the key components involved in calculating vital capacity.
Recognize the formula for vital capacity: Vital capacity is calculated by adding Tidal volume, Inspiratory reserve volume, and Expiratory reserve volume.
Express the formula mathematically: \( \text{Vital Capacity} = \text{Tidal Volume} + \text{Inspiratory Reserve Volume} + \text{Expiratory Reserve Volume} \).
Apply the formula: To find the vital capacity, measure or obtain the values for Tidal volume, Inspiratory reserve volume, and Expiratory reserve volume, then sum these values using the formula provided.