The document discusses the process of gas exchange in the human respiratory system. It involves 3 main steps: 1) ventilation through inspiration and expiration, 2) external respiration where gas exchange occurs between air in the lungs and blood, and 3) internal respiration where gases diffuse between blood and tissues. The main organs involved are the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. In the lungs, gas exchange takes place in the alveoli which are lined with blood capillaries, allowing for diffusion of oxygen into the blood and carbon dioxide out. Several pulmonary diseases and the effects of smoking on the lungs are also outlined.