Which system includes the lungs and airways?

The respiratory system includes the lungs and airways, which are crucial for the process of gas exchange in the body. This system is responsible for taking in oxygen from the atmosphere and expelling carbon dioxide, a byproduct of metabolism. The primary components of the respiratory system include the nasal passages, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and the lungs. Together, these structures work to ensure that oxygen is delivered to the bloodstream and that waste gases are removed efficiently.

In contrast, the cardiovascular system primarily involves the heart and blood vessels, which work together to circulate blood throughout the body. The digestive system focuses on the breakdown and absorption of food, and the neurological system is concerned with the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, which facilitate communication within the body. Understanding the distinct roles of these systems highlights why the respiratory system is specifically responsible for the function involving the lungs and airways.