Cardiovascular System

Flashcards to review key concepts about the cardiovascular system, including its components, functions, and key processes.

What are the main components of the cardiovascular system?

Blood, heart, and blood vessels (veins, arteries, capillaries).

Define double circulation in the cardiovascular system.

Double circulation refers to the separation of pulmonary circulation (blood flow to and from the lungs) and systemic circulation (blood flow to and from the rest of the body).

What is the difference between veins and arteries?

Veins carry blood towards the heart, while arteries carry blood away from the heart.

What are the phases of the cardiac cycle?

Systole (contraction phase) and diastole (relaxation phase).

What is the role of the sinoatrial (SA) node in the heart?

The SA node acts as a pacemaker, setting the rhythm for the heart's contractions.

What is an electrocardiogram (ECG)?

An ECG is a recording of the electrical activity of the cardiac contractile cells.

What does the cardiac output represent?

The cardiac output is the volume of blood pumped into the systemic circulation per minute.

What factors determine cardiac output?

Cardiac output depends on heart rate and stroke volume.

What happens during atrial systole?

During atrial systole, the atria contract, pushing blood into the ventricles.

What is the function of Purkinje fibers in the heart?

Purkinje fibers spread depolarization quickly throughout the heart muscle, ensuring coordinated contractions.