Circulatory System and Heart Anatomy

Flashcards summarizing key concepts related to blood vessels, the heart, and circulation.

Artery

Carries blood away from the heart.

Vein

Carries blood back towards the heart.

Capillary

Assists in the exchange of substances between the blood and tissues.

Aorta

The largest artery in the body, carrying oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

Superior Vena Cava

Brings deoxygenated blood from the upper part of the body back to the heart.

Inferior Vena Cava

Brings deoxygenated blood from the lower part of the body back to the heart.

Pulmonary Artery

Takes deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs to collect oxygen.

Pulmonary Vein

Brings oxygenated blood from the lungs back to the heart.

Pericardium

Tough fibrous outer layer of the heart.

Myocardium

Middle muscle layer of the heart that contracts to pump blood.

Endocardium

Smooth inner layer of the heart.

Cardiopulmonary Circulation

Carries blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation.

Systemic Circulation

Carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the body and back.

Pulse

The heart rate; the number of times the heart beats in one minute.

Tricuspid Valve

Connects the right atrium to the right ventricle.

Mitral (Bicuspid) Valve

Connects the left atrium with the left ventricle.

Aortic Valve

Connects the left ventricle with the aorta.

Pulmonary Valve

Connects the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery.

Interventricular Septum

Keeps deoxygenated and oxygenated blood from mixing.