Circulatory & Respiratory Systems

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and definitions related to the circulatory and respiratory systems as outlined in the lecture notes.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells that transport oxygen and help remove carbon dioxide.

Leucocytes

White blood cells that defend the body against infections and disease.

Platelets

Cell fragments that help stop bleeding by forming clots.

Plasma

The liquid part of blood that carries water, proteins, nutrients, and wastes.

Albumins

Main plasma proteins that maintain fluid balance and transport molecules.

Fibrinogen

A plasma protein essential for blood clotting.

Globulins

Plasma proteins that support immunity and transport substances.

High-Density Lipoproteins (HDL)

Carries cholesterol back to the liver for removal; known as 'good cholesterol'.

Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDL)

Carries cholesterol and triglycerides from the liver to body tissues; known as 'bad cholesterol'.

Trachea

The windpipe; part of the lower respiratory tract for airflow.

Gas Exchange

The process of exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide in the alveoli.

Pulmonary Circulation

Carries blood between the heart and lungs for gas exchange.

Systemic Circulation

Delivers oxygenated blood to tissues and returns CO₂-rich blood to the heart.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that binds oxygen for transport.

Carbonic Anhydrase

An enzyme that converts CO₂ and H₂O into carbonic acid in red blood cells.

Alveoli

Small air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.

Diaphragm

A muscle that assists in the process of inhalation and exhalation.

Tracheostomy

A procedure to create an opening in the trachea to facilitate breathing.

Anemia

A condition marked by inadequate red blood cells or hemoglobin.