Tag: carbon dioxide

The respiratory system is responsible for transporting oxygen to the cells in our body and removing carbon dioxide. The autonomic nervous system controls the muscles around the lungs and prepares the body to take in oxygen-rich air. Air enters the nose and mouth, through the trachea and into the bronchi, which divide into smaller passages called bronchioles, ending in alveoli. Oxygen diffuses into the capillaries, and carbon dioxide diffuses out of the capillaries and into the alveoli. The autonomic nervous system then causes the diaphragm to contract, causing the lungs to compress and forcing the carbon dioxide-rich air out. The lungs inhale and exhale between 15 and 25 times a minute, which amounts to an incredible 10,000 liters of air each day.