The physical act of moving air into and out of the lungs is called:

The correct response, ventilation, refers specifically to the mechanical process of moving air into and out of the lungs. This involves inhalation, where the diaphragm contracts and expands the chest cavity, allowing air to flow in, and exhalation, where the diaphragm relaxes, expelling air from the lungs. Ventilation is a critical function of the respiratory system, as it facilitates the exchange of gases necessary for respiration.

Respiration, while related, encompasses both the mechanical process of ventilation and the biochemical processes that occur in the cells. It is broader and includes the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide at the cellular level.

Diffusion pertains to the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, such as the gas exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide across the alveolar membrane, but it does not specifically refer to the physical movement of air.

Oxygenation describes the process of adding oxygen to the blood, which occurs after air has been ventilated into the lungs and oxygen diffused into the bloodstream. Hence, oxygenation is a result of effective ventilation but not synonymous with the act of moving air itself.