What term describes all processes involved in delivering oxygen to the cells?

The term that describes all processes involved in delivering oxygen to the cells is respiration. This process includes several key components: the inhalation of oxygen into the lungs, its diffusion into the bloodstream, and the transport of that oxygen to the cells throughout the body. Respiration is vital for cellular functions because cells require oxygen to produce energy through aerobic metabolism.

In this context, metabolism refers to all the biochemical reactions that occur within the cells, including both the utilization of oxygen and the production of energy. Ventilation specifically refers to the mechanical process of breathing, where air is moved in and out of the lungs, while homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions, such as temperature and pH, which supports overall cellular function. Thus, respiration is the most fitting term for the processes involved in ensuring that oxygen reaches the cells.