Hingamisõhk

Hingamisõhk refers to the air that is inhaled and exhaled during the process of respiration. It is essential for life, as it provides the oxygen necessary for cellular metabolism and removes carbon dioxide, a waste product. The composition of ambient air, which serves as hingamisõhk, is approximately 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 0.9% argon, 0.04% carbon dioxide, and trace amounts of other gases.

The act of breathing, or respiration, involves the lungs and the diaphragm. When inhaled, hingamisõhk enters the lungs, where oxygen diffuses into the bloodstream and is transported to tissues throughout the body. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide from the tissues diffuses into the blood and is carried back to the lungs to be exhaled.

The quality of hingamisõhk is a significant factor in public health. Air pollution, caused by industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and other sources, can introduce harmful substances into the air, potentially leading to respiratory illnesses and other health problems. Efforts to improve air quality aim to ensure that hingamisõhk is as clean and safe as possible. In various contexts, such as diving or firefighting, specialized breathing apparatus are used to provide safe hingamisõhk in environments where the ambient air is not breathable.