Structure and function : how the architecture of the lung subserves its function
Ventilation : how gas gets to the alveoli
Diffusion : how gas gets across the blood-gas barrier
Blood flow and metabolism : how the pulmonary circulation removes gas from the lung and alters some metabolites
Ventilation-perfusion relationships : how matching of gas and blood determines gas exchange
Gas transport by the blood : how gases are moved to the peripheral tissues
Mechanics of breathing : how the lung is supported and moved
Control of ventilation : how gas exchange is regulated
Respiratory system under stress : how gas exchange is accomplished during exercise, at low and high pressures, and at birth
Tests of pulmonary function : how respiratory physiology is applied to measure lung function.