Topic 1.2 cardiovascular system Flashcards
Describe pathway of blood in the body
vena cava
right atrium
tricuspid valve
right ventricle
semilunar valve
pulmonary artery
LUNGS
pulmonary vein
left atrium
bicuspid valve
left ventricle
semilunar valve
aorta
BODY
What are the 3 functions of the cardiovascular system?
- transport of oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients
- clotting of open wounds
- regulation of body temperature (by vasodilation)
describe arteries
- carries blood away from the heart
- has a pulse
- high pressure
- largest artery is aorta
- narrow lumen to maintain pressure
- thick elastic walls
describe veins
- carries blood towards the heart
- thinner walls
- valves
- largest vein is vena cava
describe capillaries
- smallest of the vessels
- walls are only 1 cell thick to allow diffusion to happen more easily
- oxygen in and carbon dioxide out
define vasodilation
The increase in diameter of the blood vessels to increase blood flow and heat loss
define vasoconstriction
The decrease of blood vessels to decrease blood flow and increase temperature
what is systolic value
blood pressure when heart is contracting
what diastolic value
blood pressure when heart is relaxing
Why is vascular shunting required?
To give oxygen to areas that need it and don’t to areas that don’t
what is the purpose of red blood cells
- transports carbon dioxide to the lungs
- transports oxygen to the working muscles
- contains haemoglobin which is a protein that carries oxygen
What is the purpose of white blood cells
- protects the body from infection and disease
- during exercise WBC’s help the body by responding to potential infections
- Aids tissue repair, which is crucial for recovery
What is the purpose of platelets?
- blood clotting
- stops excessive bleeding
What is the purpose of plasma?
- Carries red, white blood cells
- transport CO2 and urea
