Transport of Gases and Respiration Regulation:
Gas Exchange in Lungs: Oxygen is inhaled, and carbon dioxide is exhaled in the lungs.
Oxygen Transport: Oxygen binds to hemoglobin, carried by blood to body tissues.
Circulation and Cellular Respiration: Oxygen is released in tissues for energy production, generating carbon dioxide.
Carbon Dioxide Transport: Carbon dioxide enters the blood, mostly as bicarbonate ions, and is transported back to the lungs.
Regulation of Respiration: Brainstem control centers monitor O2, CO2, and pH levels, adjusting breathing rate and depth to maintain balance.
Sensors and Feedback: Chemoreceptors and lung stretch receptors provide constant feedback.
Voluntary Control and Adaptation: Breathing can be consciously controlled, and it adapts to activity, stress, and altitude changes to meet oxygen needs.
