The heart and blood Flashcards
Name six substances that are transported in the blood.
- Oxygen
- Carbon dioxide
- Glucose
- Urea
- Hormones
- Antibodies
What is the function (job) of the vena cava?
A vein that carries deoxygenated blood to the heart from the body’s systems
How does blood enter the heart?
Through veins
How does blood leave the heart?
Through arteries
What is the function (job) of the pulmonary vein?
Carries oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart
What is the function (job) of the aorta?
An artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the body
What is the function (job) of the pulmonary artery?
Carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs
Where does blood from the vena cava enter the heart?
Through the right atrium
Where does blood from the pulmonary vein enter the heart?
Through the left atrium
What is the function (job) of the heart valves between the atria and ventricles?
Prevents blood from flowing back into the atria
Humans have a double circulatory system. What are the two circuits?
- Pulmonary circulation (lungs)
- Systemic circulation (rest of the body)
Why is the pulmonary circulation under low pressure?
Because the lungs are close to the heart
What are two ways that faulty heart valves can be replaced?
- with a biological valve from a human donor or made from animal tissue from a pig or cow
- with a mechanical valve made from strong, durable materials
How does the heart beat independently from the nervous system?
Specialised cells in the right atrium generate electrical signals that make the heart contract, and act as a natural pacemaker
What is an artificial pacemaker?
A medical device that uses electrical impulses to regulate heart beats
Describe the structure of the arteries.
- Thick and elasticated walls
- Lots of connective tissue to provide strength
- Narrow lumen (channel that carries blood)