The Lungs

Definition

The lungs are a pair of spongy, air-filled organs located on either side of the chest (thorax), primarily responsible for gas exchange between the air and the bloodstream. They remove carbon dioxide from the blood and replace it with oxygen during the breathing process.

Related terms

Alveoli:

Tiny sac-like structures within the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged with the bloodstream.

Bronchi:

The main passageways directly attached to the lungs that transport air in and out of them.

Diaphragm:

A large, dome-shaped muscle located below the lungs that contracts and relaxes to enable breathing