Biology - Circulatory System

These flashcards cover important concepts related to the circulatory system studied in Biology.

What is the primary function of the circulatory system in multicellular organisms?

To transport gases, nutrients, and wastes between sites of exchange and the rest of the body.

What distinguishes open circulatory systems from closed circulatory systems?

Open circulatory systems have hemolymph that circulates in cavities, while closed circulatory systems contain blood within vessels.

What are the two types of circulation in the vertebrate circulatory system?

Pulmonary circulation (heart to lungs) and systemic circulation (heart to body).

What type of blood do erythrocytes transport?

Oxygenated blood, using hemoglobin to bind oxygen.

What is hematopoiesis?

The production of blood cells from pluripotent stem cells.

What occurs during the intrinsic conduction system of the heart?

It sets the rhythm of heart contractions independently of nerve impulses.

What are the four chambers of the heart?

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

What are the primary types of blood vessels?

Arteries, veins, and capillaries.

Define systole and diastole in relation to the cardiac cycle.

Systole is the contraction phase, while diastole is the relaxation phase.

What measurement does a sphygmomanometer provide?

Blood pressure, specifically systolic and diastolic values.

What is the role of lymph in the lymphatic system?

To collect excess interstitial fluid, debris, and pathogens and return it to the circulatory system.

What common cardiovascular disease is characterized by the hardening of arteries?

Atherosclerosis.

What is the function of heart valves?

To maintain unidirectional blood flow within the heart.

What is meant by cardiac output?

The amount of blood pumped by each ventricle of the heart in one minute.

How does vasoconstriction affect blood flow?

It increases resistance and decreases blood flow through the vessels.

What does the term 'microcirculation' refer to?

Blood flow through capillary beds.

What can cause a heart murmur?

Backflow of blood through a defective valve.

What happens during isovolumetric contraction?

The ventricles contract without a change in volume due to closed AV valves.

What is edema?

Swelling caused by disruption in lymph flow.

What role do baroreceptors play in the body?

They monitor and regulate blood pressure.

What is the normal cardiac cycle length?

Approximately 0.8 seconds.