What are the small spherical chambers in the lungs that facilitate gas exchange called?

The small spherical chambers in the lungs that facilitate gas exchange are called alveoli. Alveoli are tiny air sacs located at the end of the bronchioles in the lungs, where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide occurs. Their structure is specially adapted for this function because they have a large surface area due to their numerous presence in the lungs and are surrounded by a network of capillaries. This configuration allows for efficient diffusion of gases, as oxygen from the air inside the alveoli can easily enter the blood in the capillaries, while carbon dioxide from the blood can be expelled into the alveoli to be exhaled.

In contrast, the bronchi are the larger air passages that lead air from the trachea into the lungs. The pleura are the membranes that surround the lungs and chest cavity, providing protection and facilitating movement during breathing. The larynx, also known as the voice box, is situated above the trachea and serves a completely different function related to sound production and protecting the airway during swallowing.