Slow, deep breaths ventilate the alveoli more effective because a smaller fraction of the tidal volume of each breath is spent moving air into and out of dead space.

What is a good alveolar ventilation?

Alveoli. Minute ventilation is the tidal volume times the respiratory rate, usually, 500 mL × 12 breaths/min = 6000 mL/min. Increasing respiratory rate or tidal volume will increase minute ventilation. Dead space refers to airway volumes not participating in gas exchange.

Why is the base of the lung better ventilated?

Ventilation is 50% greater at the base of the lung than at the apex. The weight of fluid in the pleural cavity increases the intrapleural pressure at the base to a less negative value. ... Perfusion is also greater at the base of the lung due to gravity pulling blood down towards the base.