Anatomy and Function of the Lungs The lungs are a pair of spongy, air-filled organs located on either side of the chest (thorax). The trachea (windpipe) conducts inhaled air into the lungs through its tubular branches, called bronchi. The bronchi then divide into smaller and smaller branches (bronchioles), finally becoming microscopic. The lungs' primary function is to facilitate gas exchange with the bloodstream. Oxygen from inhaled air passes through the alveoli and into the blood after being filtered by the lungs. Carbon dioxide, a waste product of metabolism, is exhaled and removed from the bloodstream. This exchange is crucial for maintaining the body's pH balance and sustaining life. Gas Exchange: Oxygen is absorbed and carbon dioxide is expelled. Protection: The respir...
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