We breathe out primarily carbon dioxide, which is a waste product produced by our body's cells during energy production. We also exhale some nitrogen and other gases, but the main gas we breathe out is carbon dioxide. This exhalation process removes carbon dioxide from our bloodstream and helps maintain the balance of gases in the body.
Explanation of the process:
- When we breathe in, oxygen-rich air enters our lungs and moves into tiny sacs called alveoli.
- Oxygen passes from the alveoli into the blood, where it binds to red blood cells and is delivered to the body's cells.
- The cells use oxygen to produce energy, creating carbon dioxide as a waste product.
- Carbon dioxide moves from the cells into the bloodstream and travels back to the lungs.
- When we breathe out, this carbon dioxide-rich air is expelled from the lungs to the outside atmosphere.
Composition of exhaled air:
- Mainly carbon dioxide (higher concentration than in inhaled air).
- Reduced oxygen content compared to inhaled air.
- Nitrogen content remains largely unchanged as it is inert and mostly passed through the lungs.
This gas exchange maintains the necessary oxygen supply for the body and removes the carbon dioxide produced by metabolism.
