Lung
Lung is a major organ of the respiratory system responsible for breathing and gas exchange in humans and many animals. The lungs supply oxygen to the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide from the body.
Humans have two lungs located in the chest cavity on either side of the heart. The right lung is slightly larger than the left lung.
Overview
The lungs are soft, spongy organs that expand and contract during breathing.
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Air enters through the nose or mouth, travels through the trachea and bronchi, and reaches alveoli where gas exchange occurs.
Structure
The lungs are protected by the rib cage and covered by a membrane called pleura.
Right Lung
- Superior lobe
- Middle lobe
- Inferior lobe
Left Lung
- Superior lobe
- Inferior lobe
Alveoli
Alveoli are tiny air sacs responsible for gas exchange.
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Oxygen enters the blood, while carbon dioxide is removed.
Functions
- Oxygen intake
- Carbon dioxide removal
- Gas exchange
- Acid-base balance
- Support for speech
- Protection from dust and microbes
Respiratory System
The lungs work with:
- Trachea
- Bronchi
- Bronchioles
- Diaphragm
Common Lung Diseases
- Asthma
- Pneumonia
- Tuberculosis
- Pulmonary Hypertension
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
- Lung cancer
Importance
The lungs are essential for life as they provide oxygen for energy production and remove waste gases from the body.