What is the term for the ebb-and-flow movement of air during respiration?

The term that describes the ebb-and-flow movement of air during respiration is tidal flow. This phrase refers specifically to the cyclic movement of air in and out of the lungs that occurs during normal breathing. Tidal flow encompasses both inhalation, where fresh air is drawn into the lungs, and exhalation, where used air is expelled.

Ventilation is a broader term that refers to the overall process of moving air into and out of the lungs and includes tidal flow but does not specifically describe the rhythmic nature of the air movement itself. Respiratory rate quantifies the number of breaths taken per minute but does not convey the continuous movement pattern of air. Inspiratory effort refers to the work or effort involved in the act of inhaling, which again does not encapsulate the full cycle of air movement characteristic of tidal flow.

Thus, tidal flow correctly captures the essence of how air moves rhythmically during breathing, highlighting the natural and passive nature of this process in a typical respiratory cycle.