Subtitle Forum: How Much CO2 Do We Breathe Out in One Breath?
We know that carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the main components of the air we breathe. But how much CO2 do we expel into the atmosphere with each breath?
Respiratory Physiology
The amount of CO2 we exhale with each breath is determined by our respiratory physiology, which is the science of how our bodies take in oxygen and expel CO2. During normal breathing, we inhale a volume of air that contains a certain amount of oxygen and a certain amount of CO2. The oxygen is used by our cells to produce energy, while the CO2 is released into the atmosphere.
Breathing Rates
The amount of CO2 we exhale with each breath also depends on our breathing rate. Our breathing rate is determined by how much oxygen our bodies need to produce energy. Generally speaking, the more active we are, the faster our breathing rate and the more CO2 we exhale with each breath.
Exhaled CO2
So, on average, how much CO2 do we exhale with each breath? According to the American Thoracic Society, a person at rest will exhale about 2.5 liters of air with each breath, and that air will contain about 0.7 grams of CO2. That means that each breath will release 0.7 grams of CO2 into the atmosphere.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we exhale a small amount of CO2 with each breath. While this may seem insignificant, the amount of CO2 we exhale collectively is having an impact on the environment. Therefore, it is important that we take steps to reduce our CO2 emissions in order to protect our planet for future generations.
