Human Anatomy and Physiology II - Exam 1

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to the heart, blood circulation, and blood components as studied in Human Anatomy and Physiology II.

Systemic Circuit

Carries oxygenated blood from the heart to all tissues except lungs and returns deoxygenated blood to the heart.

Pulmonary Circuit

Carries blood to and from gas exchange surfaces of the lungs.

Capillaries

Small blood vessels that exchange materials such as gases, nutrients, and wastes between blood and tissues.

Left Atrium

Collects blood from the pulmonary circuit (from the lungs).

Left Ventricle

Pumps blood to the systemic circuit.

Right Atrium

Collects blood from the systemic circuit.

Apex of the Heart

The pointed tip of the heart.

Pericardial Sac

A fibrous tissue sack that surrounds and stabilizes the heart.

Pericarditis

Infection of the pericardium, which can lead to fluid collection around the heart.

Epicardium

The outer layer of the heart; also known as visceral pericardium.

Myocardium

The muscular middle layer of the heart responsible for contractions.

Endocardium

The inner layer of the heart, lining the chambers and valves.

Intercalated Discs

Connections between cardiac muscle cells that facilitate the propagation of action potentials.

Sinoatrial (SA) Node

The pacemaker of the heart located in the posterior wall of the right atrium.

Atrioventricular (AV) Node

Receives impulses from the SA node and delays them before passing them to the ventricles.

Erythropoiesis

The process of producing red blood cells.

Hemoglobin

A protein molecule that transports respiratory gases in red blood cells.

Anemia

A condition where hematocrit or hemoglobin levels are below normal.

Agglutinogens

Antigens on the surface of red blood cells that determine blood type.

Leukocytes

White blood cells that defend against pathogens, remove toxins, and attack abnormal cells.

Thrombocytopenia

Abnormally low platelet count.

Venous Return

The amount of blood returning to the heart, particularly the right atrium each minute.