What does the term "pulmonary ventilation" refer to?

The term "pulmonary ventilation" specifically refers to the mechanical process of air movement in and out of the lungs. This process involves the inhalation of air into the lungs (inspiration) and the expulsion of air out of the lungs (expiration), facilitating the exchange of gases that is crucial for respiration.

While options related to gas exchange and transport are integral to the overall respiratory process, they focus more on later stages, such as the exchange of gases between the lungs and blood or the transportation of oxygen through the bloodstream, rather than the mechanical function of breathing itself. Thus, understanding that pulmonary ventilation highlights the physical act of breathing clarifies its significance in respiratory physiology.