Lecture 10: Circulation & Gas Exchange

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding circulation, the structures of the mammalian heart, and the significance of surface area to volume ratios in biological systems.

What is the role of the right atrium in the mammalian heart?

It receives blood from the body via the inferior vena cava.

What does the left ventricle do?

It pumps blood to the body via the aorta.

Where does blood go after leaving the right ventricle?

To the lungs via the pulmonary arteries.

What vessel carries oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart?

The pulmonary veins.

What are capillaries?

Small, numerous blood vessels that are the site of gas exchange.

What is the significance of the surface area to volume ratio?

It affects diffusion rate and heat transfer.

What is the surface area to volume ratio (SA/V) for a cube with 1 cm edges?

6:1.

How does the size of an object affect its surface area to volume ratio?

Smaller objects have higher SA/V ratios, facilitating more efficient diffusion.

What is the function of arteries?

To carry blood away from the heart.

What function do veins serve in the circulatory system?

To return blood to the heart.