Overview of the Respiratory System

The respiratory system involves the physical process of breathing (ventilation), which includes inhalation

(breathing in) and exhalation (breathing out). Aerobic respiration releases energy

from glucose using oxygen, while anaerobic respiration does so without oxygen.

Key components of the respiratory system include the trachea, bronchi,

bronchioles, alveoli, diaphragm, and intercostal muscles.

Air enters through the nose, where it is filtered and warmed. The trachea,

supported by cartilage, splits into bronchi. The bronchioles, which do not have cartilage,

lead to alveoli—tiny air sacs vital for gas exchange where oxygen enters the blood and carbon