Luftvolumina

Luftvolumina is a German term that translates to air volumes in English and is used in several technical fields to denote the amount of air contained in a defined space or system. In physiology, the term refers to lung volumes—the amounts of air displaced during breathing. Common lung volumes include tidal volume, inspiratory and expiratory reserve volumes, functional residual capacity, residual volume, and total lung capacity. These values, typically measured in liters or milliliters, are assessed with methods such as spirometry, body plethysmography, and gas-d dilution techniques to evaluate respiratory function.

In engineering and building services, Luftvolumina describe the physical volume of air in a room, chamber, or duct system. This concept is important for designing effective ventilation, air exchange rates, and indoor air quality. The air volume of a space, combined with the desired air-change rate, determines the required supply and exhaust airflow to achieve targets for comfort and air cleanliness.

The related term Luftvolumenstrom (volumetric air flow) denotes the rate at which air moves through a point, measured in units such as cubic meters per hour or liters per second. While Luftvolumina emphasizes the amount of air present, Luftvolumenstrom focuses on the rate of movement.

Etymology and usage: the word combines Luft (air) and Volumen (volume); the plural form Luftvolumina appears in contexts where multiple air volumes are discussed, such as comparisons across spaces or measurements across time. See also ventilation, HVAC, spirometry, lung volumes, and indoor air quality.