What are the two main branches of the trachea called, which serve as air tubes to and from the lungs?

The two main branches of the trachea that serve as air tubes to and from the lungs are known as the bronchi. The trachea bifurcates into the left and right bronchi, directing air into each lung where it further divides into smaller branches called bronchioles.

The function of the bronchi is critical as they facilitate the passage of air, enabling gas exchange to occur within the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange takes place. Understanding the anatomy and function of the bronchi is important in the study of respiratory physiology and health, particularly in conditions affecting airway patency and lung function. The other terms mentioned—alveoli, bronchioles, and larynx—play different roles in the respiratory system; for instance, alveoli are the sites of gas exchange, bronchioles are smaller airway passages branching off from the bronchi, and the larynx is part of the upper airway that houses the vocal cords and protects the trachea against food aspiration.