The Circulatory System Flashcards
(37 cards)
What is the primary function of red blood cells?
To transport oxygen.
What is a key structural feature of red blood cells that aids in their function?
They have a biconcave shape.
What pigment do red blood cells contain that is essential for oxygen transport?
Hemoglobin, which contains iron.
What is the role of white blood cells in the body?
They serve as a defense against disease.
By identifying and attacking bacteria and viruses.
What is the function of platelets in the blood?
They play a critical role in blood clotting and scab formation.
Name some substances transported by plasma.
carbon dioxide, digested food including glucose, amino acids and soluble nutrients
Why is the biconcave shape of red blood cells important for their function?
It increases the surface area for gas exchange
Why do red blood cells lack a nucleus?
To maximize space for hemoglobin and improve oxygen transport
What is the importance of hemoglobin containing iron in red blood cells?
Iron binds oxygen, allowing red blood cells to effectively transport it throughout the body.
2 Types of White Blood Cells
Lymphocytes
phagocytes
How does the absence of a nucleus in red blood cells benefit their function during oxygen transport?
It allows for more hemoglobin to be packed into the cell, enhancing oxygen-carrying capacity.
What role do hormones play in the blood plasma?
They are transported to target organs
Do arteries have valves present?
No
Which type of blood vessel has valves?
Veins have valves present.
What type of blood vessel has the thickest walls?
Arteries have the thickest walls.
Are capillaries permeable to allow substances to pass through?
Yes, capillaries are permeable.
Which blood vessel type has the largest lumen diameter?
Veins have the largest lumen diameter.
What contributes to the ability of veins to accommodate larger volumes of blood?
The larger lumen diameter of veins allows for greater blood volume.
Why do arteries have thick walls?
To withstand high pressure from blood being pumped from the heart.
What feature of capillaries allows for the exchange of substances?
Their permeability allows substances to pass through.
What is the primary function of valves in veins?
Thus, valves help the return of blood to the heart—by opening when the blood flows toward the heart and closing when blood might flow backward
What is the primary function of blood vessels entering the heart?
They carry deoxygenated blood to the heart.
Which blood vessels carry oxygenated blood away from the heart?
Arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart.
Describe the sequence of blood flow in the double circulation system.
Deoxygenated blood flows from the body to the right atrium, then to the right ventricle, which pumps it to the lungs. Oxygenated blood returns to the left atrium, then to the left ventricle, which pumps it to the body.
