The main purpose of the respiratory system is to facilitate the exchange of gases, primarily oxygen and carbon dioxide, between the body and the environment. This system enables the intake of oxygen through inhalation, which then travels to the lungs and into the bloodstream, where it is delivered to cells throughout the body for metabolic processes. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide, a byproduct of cellular metabolism, is transported back to the lungs and expelled during exhalation. This gas exchange is essential for maintaining homeostasis and supporting overall bodily functions vital for survival.