The Circulatory System Flashcards
What is the function of the parasympathetic nervous system?
It returns the body to a normal state after stress (rest and digest).
Heart rate can be observed using a(n)….
…electrocardiograph.
Systemic circulation occurs on the _______ side of the heart.
left
Red blood cells are also known as…
…erythrocytes
What is the function of the circulatory system? [3]
- Transports oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to cells
- Removes metabolic waste
- Distributes heat
Pulmonary circulation
Route taken from heart to lungs, and back to heart
Describe the function of capillaries.
They are the smallest blood vessels, and supply nutrients to your cells.
What is the purpose of the atrioventricular valves?
To ensure no backflow of blood into the atria.
What is plasma and what does it contain? [2]
Plasma is a protein-rich liquid which the cells and platelets are suspended in 90% water, containing oxygen, proteins, nutrients, and waste products.
Blood contains two main components:
Cellular components (red and white blood cells and platelets) and intercellular matrix (plasma).
What is the main purpose of red blood cells?
To carry oxygen from the lungs to the cells and carbon dioxide from the cells back to the lungs.
Systemic circulation
The route taken by the blood from the heart to the body
Describe the diastole and systole of the cardiac cycle.
- Diastole is a period of the cardiac cycle when the ventricles are relaxed and blood flows in.
- Systole is a period of the cardiac cycle when the ventricles contract and blood is ejected.
Differentiate between an open circulatory system and a closed circulatory system.
In an open circulatory system, the fluid is pumped into an interconnected system of body cavities where it bathes the cells directly. In a closed circulatory system, fluid is contained within a network of tubes.
How is blood pressure measured?
Using a sphygomomanometer, measuring systolic pressure/diastolic pressure.
Name the two phases of the cardiac cycle.
Diastole and Systole.
What is the purpose of the semilunar valve?
To ensure no backflow of blood to the heart.
Define diastolic pressure.
Blood pressure in arteries when the heart relaxes.
What is the main purpose of platelets?
Blood clotting (coagulation)
What does the cardiac cycle refer to?
- Refers to the contractions and relaxations of the heart muscles.
Where do veins carry blood?
They carry blood back from the body to the lungs. All carry deoxygenated blood, with the exception of the pulmonary vein.
Cardiac circulation
Route taken by the blood within the heart
Define systolic pressure.
Blood pressure in the arteries when the blood contracts.
What is the function of the sympathetic nervous system?
It prepares the body for times of stress and increases heart rate (fight or flight response).
