Final answer:
Vitamin E is essential for protecting lung tissue and red blood cells from oxidative damage caused by high concentrations of oxygen and environmental pollutants.
Step-by-step explanation:
The vitamin that is especially important in the lungs and red blood cells (RBCs) due to their exposure to high concentrations of oxygen is Vitamin E. This vitamin shields cell membranes, which contain polyunsaturated fatty acids, from oxidative damage by interacting with free radicals to form less reactive molecules. This process prevents the oxidative degradation of cell components and is crucial for maintaining membrane integrity. Vitamins like Vitamin E and other antioxidants such as vitamin C and selenium are vital in preventing lung tissue damage from atmospheric pollutants and in supporting the immune system. Within the mitochondria, the respiration process depends on the availability of Vitamin E, underlining its importance in cellular function.