What is the term for the amount of air that enters or leaves the lungs during one respiratory cycle?

The term for the amount of air that enters or leaves the lungs during one respiratory cycle is known as Tidal Volume. This measurement specifically refers to the volume of air inhaled or exhaled in a single breath when at rest. Tidal Volume is a fundamental component of respiratory physiology as it indicates the efficiency of breathing and helps in assessing lung function.

In contrast, Minute Ventilation represents the total volume of air that is inhaled or exhaled in one minute, which is a broader metric that includes multiple breaths. Vital Capacity refers to the maximum amount of air a person can exhale after taking the deepest breath possible, and is an important measure of lung capacity but not the amount associated with a single breath. Residual Volume is the volume of air remaining in the lungs after a maximal exhalation, which cannot be exhaled and therefore does not pertain to the volume of air moved in one respiratory cycle. Thus, Tidal Volume accurately captures the essence of the question, as it focuses specifically on the air exchanged in one breath.