The Circulatory System

The circulatory system, also known as the cardiovascular system, is a complex network of organs and vessels that transport blood throughout the body.
 

Main Components

Heart: Pumps blood throughout the body.
 
Arteries: Carry oxygenated blood away from the heart to the body.
 
Veins: Return deoxygenated blood to the heart.
 
Capillaries: Allow oxygen and nutrients to diffuse into cells and waste to be removed.
 
Blood: Transports oxygen, nutrients, and waste products throughout the body.

How the Circulatory System Works?

Blood Circulation: The heart pumps blood into arteries, which branch into capillaries.
 
Oxygenation: Oxygen and nutrients diffuse into cells through capillaries.
 
Deoxygenation: Waste products and carbon dioxide enter capillaries.
 
Return Journey: Deoxygenated blood flows through veins back to the heart.
 
Pumping Cycle: The heart pumps blood out to the body, repeating the cycle.

Functions

Oxygen Delivery: Supplies oxygen to cells and organs.
 
Nutrient Delivery: Transports nutrients from digestion to cells.
 
Waste Removal: Removes waste products from cells.
 
Regulation: Helps regulate body temperature, pH, and blood pressure.

Interesting Facts

  • The heart beats around 3 billion times in a lifetime!
  • The circulatory system contains over 96,560 kilometers of blood vessels!
  • Blood is pumped at a rate of 8,000 liters per day!
  • The heart pumps blood up to 9 meters high!

Common Circulatory System Issues

High Blood Pressure: Excessive pressure on blood vessels.
 
Atherosclerosis: Plaque buildup in arteries, leading to blockages.
 
Heart Failure: Heart unable to pump enough blood.
 
Anaemia: Low red blood cell count, reducing oxygen delivery.

Related Simulations

Internal Heart Structure

Heart Beat

Heart Valves