What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

• A. To facilitate nutrient absorption
• B. To facilitate gas exchange
• C. To regulate blood pressure
• D. To produce hormones

Answer: (B)

The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate gas exchange. This process occurs mainly in the alveoli of the lungs, where oxygen from the air is exchanged for carbon dioxide from the blood. During inhalation, oxygen-rich air enters the lungs and reaches the alveoli, where oxygen diffuses into the bloodstream. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide, which is a waste product of metabolism, moves from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled. This essential exchange supports cellular respiration in the body's tissues, ensuring that oxygen is delivered to cells while removing carbon dioxide, thus maintaining homeostasis. The other options relate to different bodily functions: nutrient absorption is primarily the role of the digestive system; blood pressure regulation is managed by the cardiovascular system in conjunction with the kidneys; and hormone production is primarily a function of the endocrine system. While these systems are crucial for overall health, they do not play the central role in gas exchange that the respiratory system does.

The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate gas exchange. This process occurs mainly in the alveoli of the lungs, where oxygen from the air is exchanged for carbon dioxide from the blood. During inhalation, oxygen-rich air enters the lungs and reaches the alveoli, where oxygen diffuses into the bloodstream. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide, which is a waste product of metabolism, moves from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled. This essential exchange supports cellular respiration in the body's tissues, ensuring that oxygen is delivered to cells while removing carbon dioxide, thus maintaining homeostasis.

The other options relate to different bodily functions: nutrient absorption is primarily the role of the digestive system; blood pressure regulation is managed by the cardiovascular system in conjunction with the kidneys; and hormone production is primarily a function of the endocrine system. While these systems are crucial for overall health, they do not play the central role in gas exchange that the respiratory system does.