B3e-the Circulatory System Flashcards
What is the function of white blood cells?
Fight pathogens by
Consuming them
Producing antitoxins
Producing antibodies
What is the function of platelets?
Small fragments of cells that help blood clot
How is the structure of a red blood cell adapted to its function?
Bioconcave shape gives large surface area to volume ratio for absorbing and releasing oxygen
How does haemoglobin in red blood cells react with oxygen in the lungs?
In the lungs haemoglobin combines with oxygen to become oxyhaemoglobin
In body tissues the reverse happens to release oxygen to the cells
Where does blood travel?
Arteries
Veins
Capillaries
How do the parts of the circulatory system work together to bring about the transport of substances around the body?
Arteries transporting blood away from the heart
Veins transporting the blood to the heart
Capillaries exchanging materials with tissues
How does the structure of arteries relate to their function?
Thick muscular and elastic wall
Strong to carry blood under pressure
How does the structure of veins relate to their function?
Large lumen
Valves help keep blood flowing in right direction
How does the structure of capillaries relate to their function?
Small
Permeable walls means substances can diffuse in and out
What does the right side of the heart do?
Pumps blood to lungs
What does the left side of the heart do?
Pumps blood to rest of body
What do the left and right ventricles do?
Pumps blood
What do the left and right atria do?
Receive blood
What do the semilunar, tricuspid and bicuspid valves do?
Prevents backflow
Why does the left ventricle have a thicker muscle wall?
It needs more muscle to pump blood around the whole body
