The Cardiovascular System

Front

What is the primary function of the cardiovascular system?

Back

To circulate blood throughout the body, motored by the action of the heart.

Front

What are the two main types of circulation in the cardiovascular system?

Back

Pulmonary circulation and systemic circulation.

Front

What does the inferior vena cava do?

Back

It carries de-oxygenated blood from the lower part of the body to the right atrium of the heart.

Front

What is the role of the superior vena cava?

Back

It carries de-oxygenated blood from the head and arms to the right atrium of the heart.

Front

Describe the flow of blood from the right atrium to the lungs.

Back

Blood flows from the right atrium through the tricuspid valve to the right ventricle, then to the lungs via the pulmonary valve and pulmonary artery.

Front

What happens to blood in the lungs?

Back

It exchanges carbon dioxide for oxygen.

Front

How does oxygenated blood return to the heart?

Back

It flows back to the left atrium through the pulmonary veins.

Front

What is the function of the aorta?

Back

It is the largest artery of the body, carrying oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to the rest of the body.

Front

What branches off the arch of the aorta?

Back

The brachiocephalic artery, left common carotid artery, and left subclavian artery.

Front

What is the role of the renal artery?

Back

It supplies blood to the kidneys, which filter waste products and excess water from the blood.