Dead Space Fraction (Bohr) Calculator

Enter arterial and mixed-expired CO₂ to get the Bohr dead space fraction.

How to use

  1. Enter your values in the fields above.
  2. Press Calculate to see your result instantly.
  3. Use the Share button to copy a link to your result.

About this calculator

This calculator applies the Bohr equation, the classic respiratory physiology formula for physiological dead space: Vd/Vt = (PaCO₂ − PeCO₂) ÷ PaCO₂, where PaCO₂ is arterial CO₂ tension and PeCO₂ is the mixed expired CO₂. It measures the fraction of each breath that ventilates the airways and alveoli without ever taking part in actual gas exchange.

Anesthesiologists and intensive-care clinicians use the Vd/Vt ratio to assess ventilation efficiency in mechanically ventilated patients — a normal ratio is roughly 0.2–0.4, and an elevated value points to conditions like pulmonary embolism or severe lung disease that waste ventilation.

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