Front

Artery

Back

A vessel that carries blood away from the heart, typically oxygenated, except in the pulmonary circuit.

Front

Vein

Back

A vessel that carries blood toward the heart, typically deoxygenated, except in the pulmonary circuit.

Front

Arteriole

Back

A small branch of an artery leading to a capillary.

Front

Capillary

Back

A tiny blood vessel where the exchange of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other substances occurs between blood and tissues.

Front

Venule

Back

A small vessel that collects blood from capillaries and leads into veins.

Front

Myocardium

Back

The muscular tissue of the heart that contracts to pump blood.

Front

Pericardium

Back

The membrane enclosing the heart, consisting of two layers: fibrous and serous.

Front

Systole

Back

The phase of the heart's cycle during which the heart contracts and pumps blood.

Front

Diastole

Back

The phase when the heart relaxes and fills with blood.

Front

Atria

Back

The two upper chambers of the heart that receive blood from the body and lungs.