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The lungs play a crucial role in excreting gaseous and volatile compounds from the body. They facilitate the exchange of gases; carbon dioxide is expelled from the blood into the alveoli, where it is then exhaled. This process effectively removes carbon dioxide, a waste product of metabolism. Additionally, the lungs can excrete certain volatile substances, such as alcohol and anesthetic gases, through the breath.

The liver is primarily involved in metabolizing compounds and detoxifying substances, while the kidneys focus on filtering waste products from the bloodstream, primarily in liquid form. The intestines are responsible for processing solid waste and absorbing nutrients, which does not include excreting gaseous substances. Therefore, the lungs are uniquely suited for the task of eliminating gaseous and volatile compounds from the body.