Cardiovascular_system_F2020

What is the primary function of the cardiovascular system?

To transport oxygen, nutrients, regulatory molecules, and waste products throughout the body.

What type of vessels carry blood away from the heart?

Arteries.

What is the structure and function of capillaries?

Microscopic vessels that allow for the exchange of gases and nutrients between blood and interstitial fluid.

What are the three layers of the heart?

Epicardium, myocardium, and endocardium.

What are the main chambers of the heart?

Right atrium, right ventricle, left atrium, left ventricle.

What is the role of the atrioventricular valves?

Prevent backflow into the atria during ventricular contractions.

What are the two main types of circulation in the cardiovascular system?

Pulmonic circulation (to the lungs) and systemic circulation (to the rest of the body).

What is the significance of the sinoatrial (SA) node?

It initiates the heartbeat and regulates the interval between beats.

What occurs during systole?

High pressure created by ventricular contraction, leading to the pumping of blood out of the heart.

What happens during diastole?

Low pressure when ventricles relax, allowing them to receive blood from the atria.

What are the tunics of blood vessels?

Tunica intima, tunica media, and tunica adventitia.

What is the function of capillaries?

Site of exchange for metabolites and waste products between blood and tissues.

How do veins prevent backflow of blood?

By having valves composed of two leaflets lined by endothelial cells.

What characterizes elastic arteries?

They are generally the largest arteries, like the aorta, and have a tunica media containing many elastic fibers.

What is the purpose of pacemaker cells in the heart?

They can trigger their own depolarization and help maintain the correct rhythm of the heart.

How does blood pressure relate to ventricular pressure during heart function?

Systolic pressure indicates ventricular contraction; diastolic pressure indicates relaxation.

What types of cells are found in the myocardium?

Cardiac muscle cells, characterized by striations, central nuclei, and branching.

What is the difference between arteries and veins regarding wall thickness?

Arteries have thicker and stronger walls than veins.

What happens to blood pressure in cases of dehydration?

Systolic blood pressure may drop due to low blood volume.