What is the main function of the respiratory system?
Answer (2)
Respiratory SystemThe correct answer is: To exchange gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide)The respiratory system is responsible for the crucial process of gas exchange, where oxygen (O₂) from the air is brought into the body and carbon dioxide (CO₂), a waste product of metabolism, is expelled. This process ensures that cells in the body receive the oxygen they need to produce energy and that carbon dioxide is removed to maintain pH balance and avoid toxic buildup.The major organs of the respiratory system include:Nasal cavity and mouth – where air entersPharynx and larynx – which guide the air into the windpipeTrachea (windpipe) – the main passageway for air to reach the lungsBronchi and bronchioles – branching tubes that carry air deeper into the lungsLungs – the primary organ where gas exchange occursAlveoli – tiny air sacs in the lungs where oxygen enters the blood and carbon dioxide leaves itDiaphragm – the muscle that helps move air in and out of the lungsThe process begins when you inhale air through your nose or mouth. This air travels down your throat, through the trachea, into the bronchi, and eventually reaches the alveoli in the lungs. At the alveolar level, oxygen from the air diffuses into the tiny blood vessels (capillaries), while carbon dioxide diffuses out to be exhaled.This gas exchange is vital because oxygen is required for cellular respiration, the process that creates ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the main energy source for cells. Without oxygen, cells would not be able to function and survive. At the same time, removing carbon dioxide prevents the blood from becoming too acidic.Respiratory problems like asthma, pneumonia, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) disrupt this balance and can have serious health consequences. That’s why understanding the function of the respiratory system is essential not only in science but also for overall wellness.
RESPIRATORY SYSTEMThe human respiratory system helps us breathe. The main function of the respiratory system is toTake in oxygen (O₂) which is the gas that our body needsTo remove the carbon dioxide (CO₂). This process of exchange or gas exchange happens always when we breathe in air through our nose or mouth, and it travels down into our lungs. Gas exchange is the process where oxygen enters the blood and carbon dioxide leaves the blood in the lungs. It happens mainly in the alveoli, which are tiny air sacs in the lungs.
