What is one of the major components of the respiratory system?

The lungs serve as one of the major components of the respiratory system because they are the primary organs responsible for gas exchange in the body. When we inhale, air travels into the lungs where oxygen is extracted and exchanged for carbon dioxide, which is then exhaled. The structure of the lungs, with their extensive surface area provided by the alveoli, facilitates efficient oxygen absorption and carbon dioxide removal, making them essential for respiration. Without the lungs functioning effectively, the body would struggle to obtain the oxygen necessary for survival and to eliminate carbon dioxide, a waste product of metabolism. This highlights the critical role that the lungs play in maintaining the body's respiratory efficiency and overall homeostasis.