Systemics - Circulatory System (The circulatory system is also known as the cardiovascular system.)

Circulatory System

The system powered by the heart that circulates blood throughout the body to deliver substances like oxygen and nutrients and remove waste.

Main functions of the circulatory system

Move blood, deliver nutrients and oxygen to cells, and collect wastes for removal.

Components of Blood

Blood consists of plasma, white blood cells, platelets, and red blood cells.

White Blood Cells

Cells in the blood that fight infections.

Platelets

Cell fragments in blood that help clot blood.

Red Blood Cells

Cells that transport oxygen and contain hemoglobin.

Arteries

Blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart.

Veins

Blood vessels that carry blood towards the heart.

Capillaries

Serve as the microscopic bridge between arteries and veins where the body exchanges oxygen, nutrients, and waste products

Oxygenated Blood

Blood rich in oxygen, usually found on the left side of the heart.

Deoxygenated Blood

Blood lacking oxygen, usually found on the right side of the heart.

Parts of the Heart

Includes right atrium, right ventricle, left atrium, left ventricle, septum, and valves.

Right Atrium

Receives deoxygenated blood returning from the body.

Right Ventricle

Pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs.

Left Atrium

Receives oxygenated blood from the lungs.

Left Ventricle

Pumps oxygenated blood out to the body, has the thickest muscular wall.

Septum

Muscular wall that separates the left and right sides of the heart.

Valves

Structures that ensure blood flows in one direction and prevent backflow.

Coronary Arteries

Blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle.