What are the small respiratory passages that connect the trachea to the lungs?

The bronchial tubes are the small respiratory passages that connect the trachea to the lungs. After air enters through the trachea, it travels down into the bronchial tubes, which branch off into the right and left lungs. Within the lungs, these tubes continue to divide into smaller bronchi and ultimately lead to tiny air sacs called alveoli, where gas exchange occurs.

Understanding the role of bronchial tubes is essential because they serve as the main passageways for air to reach the alveoli, where oxygen is introduced into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide is removed. This makes them a crucial part of the respiratory system.

In contrast, alveoli are the site of gas exchange, while capillaries are tiny blood vessels that surround the alveoli, playing a role in transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide between blood and air. The larynx, or voice box, is involved in sound production and is located above the trachea, but it does not connect directly to the lungs.