This document discusses pulmonary ventilation, which includes the mechanics and processes of breathing. It covers:
1) How breathing is accomplished by the diaphragm and rib cage moving to expand the lungs.
2) How air moves into and out of the lungs due to pressure differences between the alveoli and pleural space.
3) The role of surfactant in reducing surface tension and improving lung compliance.
4) Measurements of lung volumes and capacities using spirometry to assess pulmonary function.