The respiratory system functions to oxygenate the blood and remove carbon dioxide. It includes the upper respiratory tract consisting of the nose and pharynx, and the lower respiratory tract consisting of the larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. The lungs contain bronchioles, respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts and sacs where gas exchange occurs across the respiratory membrane between alveoli and capillaries. Respiration is facilitated by the pleural cavities, diaphragm and intercostal muscles.