Soc 15/16 - Cardiovascular System/ Structure Of Blood Vessels Flashcards
(9 cards)
What makes up the cardiovascular system?
The cardiovascular system is formed by our heart and blood vessels
Cardio - Heart
Vascular - Blood vessels
What are the 3 main functions of the cardiovascular system?
- Transports oxygen, carbon dioxide and nutrients
- It helps clot blood
- It controls the body’s temperature
What is cardiovascular fitness?
The ability to exercise the whole body for long periods of time
What is vascular shunting?
Process that increases blood flow to active areas during exercise by diverting blood away from inactive areas ; achieved by vasodilation and vasoconstriction
What is vasodilation?
When veins swell up or dilate; widening of the internal diameter (lumen) of the blood vessel to allow increased blood flow.
What is vasoconstriction?
When veins shrink down; narrowing of the internal diameter (lumen) of the blood vessel to decrease blood flow.
What is the cardio-respiratory system?
The interaction of the heart and lungs to supply oxygen to muscles during exercise.
Describe the structure of Arteries
They have thick walls and are more elastic than veins as they carry blood which is at a higher pressure than veins as they carry oxygenated blood
Where do arteries carry oxygenated blood
Away from the heart to the working muscles
