the circulatory system Flashcards
What is the basic function of the circulatory system?
To carry and transport the blood around the body as its fuel supply
How do the circulatory system and respiratory system wokr together?
+ the blood carries the oxygen, water and nutrients throughout the body and transports and removes the waste
+ protection is provided when antibodies, which fight infection, are carried in the blood
+ also blood can clot to seal cuts and wounds
+ body temperature is regulated as the blood absorbs body heat and carries it to the lungs and skin where it is released
What is the heart?
Basically a very efficient pump
What is a heartbeat?
Every instance in which the heart (a muscle) contracts and relaxes
What is the average heartrate for an adult at rest?
72 heartbeats per minute
Why will the heart rate increase as a person exercises?
Because the heart is called upon to supply more oxygen to the working muscles
What do blood vessels do?
They allow the blood to flow
What are the three different types of blood vessels?
- arteries
- veins
- capillaries
What is the structure of arteries?
- thick walls
- do not have valves
- quite elastic walls
What do arteries do?
Carry oxygenated blood at high pressure away from the heart through the aorta
Where can a person’s pulse be located?
In their arteries
What is the structure of veins?
- thinner walls than arteries
- valves
- less elastic walls
What do veins do?
Carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart
What is the structure of capillaries?
- microscopic vessels
- very thin walls
What do capillaries do?
Link the arteries to the veins, and allow oxygen and carbon dioxide to pass through their walls
