The correct answer is:
D. The windpipe allows the respiratory system to intake air into the body and remove carbon dioxide from the blood, which in turn supports gas exchange between tissues and the blood.
This option accurately describes the role of the windpipe (trachea) in facilitating the intake of oxygen and the removal of carbon dioxide, both of which are essential for maintaining homeostasis within the respiratory and circulatory systems. The proper exchange of these gases is crucial for cellular respiration and overall metabolic function.