The amount of oxygen (O₂) in exhaled air is approximately 16%.
Comparison of Inhaled vs. Exhaled Air:
Component | Inhaled Air (%) | Exhaled Air (%) |
|---|
Oxygen (O₂) | 21% | 16% |
Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) | 0.04% | 4% |
Nitrogen (N₂) | 78% | 78% |
Other Gases | ~1% | ~2% |
The body absorbs oxygen for cellular respiration.
Oxygen is used to produce energy (ATP) in cells.
As a result, exhaled air contains less oxygen and more carbon dioxide (a waste product of metabolism).
