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    ---

    The Human Respiratory System

    The human respiratory system is responsible for the exchange of gases between the body
    and the environment. It enables the intake of oxygen (O₂) and the expulsion of carbon
    dioxide (CO₂), which is a waste product of metabolism. The system consists of various
    structures and organs that work together to facilitate breathing and gas exchange. Here’s an
    overview of its main components and functions:

    1. Nasal Cavity: Air enters the respiratory system through the nasal cavity, where it is filtered,
    warmed, and humidified. Tiny hairs called cilia and mucus trap dust, pollen, and other
    particles, preventing them from entering the lungs.

    2. Pharynx: After the nasal cavity, air passes through the pharynx, a muscular tube that
    serves both the respiratory and digestive systems. It acts as a passageway for air to reach
    the larynx and for food to enter the esophagus.

    3. Larynx: Commonly known as the voice box, the larynx is located at the top of the trachea
    and contains the vocal cords. It plays a crucial role in producing sound and also serves as a
    pathway for air to enter the trachea.

    4. Trachea: The trachea, or windpipe, is a tube that connects the larynx to the bronchi. It is
    lined with cilia and mucus to trap debris and keep the airways clear. The trachea divides into
    two main bronchi, leading to each lung.

    5. Bronchi and Bronchioles: Each bronchus enters a lung and branches into smaller bronchi
    and bronchioles, which further divide and lead to the alveoli. These airways are lined with
    smooth muscle, allowing them to expand and contract to regulate airflow.

    6. Alveoli: The alveoli are tiny air sacs at the end of the bronchioles where gas exchange
    occurs. They are surrounded by capillaries, which are small blood vessels. Oxygen from the
    inhaled air diffuses through the alveolar walls into the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide
    diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled.

    7. Lungs: The lungs are the primary organs of the respiratory system, located in the thoracic
    cavity. They are divided into lobes—three in the right lung and two in the left lung. The lungs
    expand and contract during breathing, allowing air to flow in and out.
    8. Diaphragm and Intercostal Muscles: The diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle located
    beneath the lungs, plays a crucial role in breathing. When it contracts, it pulls downward,
    creating a vacuum that draws air into the lungs. The intercostal muscles, located between
    the ribs, assist in expanding and contracting the chest cavity during inhalation and
    exhalation.

    9. Breathing Process:

    Inhalation: During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts, and the intercostal muscles lift the rib
    cage, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity. This creates a negative pressure that
    allows air to flow into the lungs.

    Exhalation: Exhalation occurs when the diaphragm relaxes, and the intercostal muscles
    lower the rib cage, decreasing the volume of the thoracic cavity. This pushes air out of the
    lungs.

    ---

    The human respiratory system is essential for sustaining life, as it ensures a constant supply
    of oxygen for cellular respiration and helps remove carbon dioxide from the body.
    Understanding how this system works is important for recognizing the impact of various
    factors, such as pollution, smoking, and respiratory diseases, on overall health.

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