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.