The respiratory system allows for gas exchange between the lungs and blood. It consists of the upper respiratory tract including the nose and throat, and the lower respiratory tract including the windpipe, bronchi, and lungs. Respiration involves breathing in oxygen which diffuses into blood vessels in the lungs, and breathing out carbon dioxide which is transported from tissues. The circulatory system then carries oxygen to tissues through blood vessels and removes carbon dioxide to maintain gas exchange throughout the body.