Circulatory & Respiratory System - Year 11 ATAR

These flashcards cover key concepts, functions, and structures related to the circulatory and respiratory systems as taught in Year 11 ATAR.

What is the primary function of the heart?

To pump blood and oxygen around the body and deliver waste products back to the lungs.

What are the four main chambers of the heart?

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

How does oxygen transport occur in the blood?

Oxygen is carried 3% dissolved in plasma and 97% combined with hemoglobin to form oxyhaemoglobin.

What is the purpose of the hepatic portal system?

Transports nutrient-rich blood from the digestive organs to the liver for processing before entering general circulation.

What do arterioles do within the circulatory system?

Arterioles are small arteries that transport blood to the capillaries.

Which blood vessels carry blood towards the heart?

Veins carry blood towards the heart.

What is the structure of capillaries?

Capillaries are microscopic blood vessels with walls that are only one cell thick, allowing for the exchange of materials between blood and body cells.

What is the role of plasma in the blood?

Plasma transports nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body.

What changes occur to blood vessels during vasodilation?

Vasodilation refers to the increase in diameter of blood vessels, allowing for increased blood flow.

What distinguishes erythrocytes (red blood cells) from leukocytes (white blood cells)?

Erythrocytes are involved in transporting oxygen, while leukocytes are involved in immunity and fighting infections.

What occurs during the cardiac cycle's diastolic phase?

The heart relaxes and fills with blood as the atria and ventricles undergo diastole.

What is the function of the pulmonary circulation?

Carries blood to and from the lungs for the purpose of gas exchange.

How do the valves in the heart function?

Valves ensure blood flows only in one direction by opening and closing as the heart contracts and relaxes.

Which arteries supply blood to the brain?

The carotid arteries supply oxygenated blood to the brain, head, and neck.

What is the significance of the SA node in the heart?

The SA node acts as the pacemaker of the heart, regulating the heart rate.

What is the lifespan of an erythrocyte?

The lifespan of an erythrocyte is about 120 days.