What function do the lungs serve?

The lungs serve the vital function of breathing, which involves the exchange of gases—primarily oxygen and carbon dioxide—between the air and the bloodstream. When we inhale, oxygen from the air enters the lungs and then diffuses into the blood, where it is transported to the cells of the body. At the same time, carbon dioxide, a waste product produced by cells, is carried back to the lungs and expelled from the body when we exhale. This process is essential for maintaining life because oxygen is crucial for cellular respiration, the process by which cells generate energy. Proper lung function is therefore essential for overall health and well-being.