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💀anatomy and physiology i review

Cardiovascular

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The cardiovascular system, also known as the circulatory system, is responsible for the transport of blood, nutrients, gases, and waste products throughout the body. This system includes the heart, blood vessels, and blood itself, working together to ensure that every cell in the body receives the necessary substances for survival and function while removing waste efficiently.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The cardiovascular system is vital for maintaining homeostasis by regulating blood flow and pressure.
  2. The heart beats approximately 100,000 times a day, pumping around 2,000 gallons of blood throughout the body.
  3. Arteries have thick elastic walls to withstand high pressure as they carry blood from the heart, while veins have thinner walls and often contain valves to prevent backflow.
  4. The system is divided into two main circuits: the pulmonary circuit, which carries blood between the heart and lungs, and the systemic circuit, which delivers blood to the rest of the body.
  5. Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death globally, highlighting the importance of maintaining cardiovascular health through lifestyle choices.

Review Questions

  • How does the structure of arteries differ from that of veins, and why are these differences important for their functions?
    • Arteries have thick elastic walls that enable them to withstand and regulate high pressure as they carry oxygenated blood away from the heart. In contrast, veins have thinner walls and often contain valves to prevent backflow since they operate under lower pressure when returning deoxygenated blood to the heart. These structural differences are crucial for maintaining efficient blood flow throughout the circulatory system.
  • Discuss the roles of both the pulmonary and systemic circuits in the cardiovascular system.
    • The pulmonary circuit is responsible for transporting deoxygenated blood from the right side of the heart to the lungs, where it receives oxygen and releases carbon dioxide. Once oxygenated, this blood returns to the left side of the heart. The systemic circuit then takes this oxygen-rich blood from the left side of the heart and delivers it to all body tissues, providing essential nutrients and oxygen while collecting waste products for removal. This dual circuit ensures efficient gas exchange and nutrient delivery throughout the body.
  • Evaluate how lifestyle factors can influence cardiovascular health and what preventative measures can be taken.
    • Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, smoking, and stress management play significant roles in cardiovascular health. Poor diet high in saturated fats and sugars can lead to obesity and high cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease. Regular physical activity strengthens the heart muscle and improves circulation. Preventative measures include adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular exercise, avoiding tobacco use, and managing stress effectively. These strategies can significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases and enhance overall heart health.