Circulatory System Biology

A set of vocabulary flashcards related to the key components and functions of the circulatory system.

What is the circulatory system made up of?

The circulatory system is made up of the heart, blood vessels, and blood.

What is the main function of the circulatory system?

The main function is to transport useful substances to cells and remove waste produced from metabolism.

What is blood composed of?

Blood consists of plasma and formed elements.

What is the liquid component of blood called?

The liquid component is called plasma, which is mostly made up of water.

What are the three main types of blood cells?

Red blood cells, white blood cells, and blood platelets.

What is the function of red blood cells?

Red blood cells contain hemoglobin for carrying oxygen.

What is the role of white blood cells?

White blood cells kill pathogens that enter the body.

What do blood platelets do?

Blood platelets form clots to stop blood loss from injuries.

What do arteries do?

Arteries carry blood away from the heart.

Why are veins structured with valves?

Veins have valves to prevent backflow of blood.

What allows capillaries to facilitate exchange of materials?

Capillaries have very thin walls that allow substances to pass through easily.

What happens during the pumping action of the heart?

The atria and ventricles alternately contract and relax to move blood.

What is the significance of the septum in the heart?

The septum prevents mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.

What is heart rate?

Heart rate refers to the number of times the heart beats per minute.

What does blood pressure measure?

Blood pressure measures the force of circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels.