The Heart and Circulation

Front

What is the main function of the heart?

Back

The main function of the heart is to pump blood throughout the body, supplying oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removing carbon dioxide and waste products.

Front

What are the two main circuits of blood circulation?

Back

The two main circuits of blood circulation are pulmonary circulation (to and from the lungs) and systemic circulation (to and from the rest of the body).

Front

What is the role of the pulmonary trunk?

Back

The pulmonary trunk carries deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs for oxygenation.

Front

What is the significance of capillary beds?

Back

Capillary beds are the sites of exchange between blood and tissue cells, allowing for the delivery of oxygen and nutrients and the removal of waste.

Front

What structures prevent backflow of blood in veins?

Back

Valves in veins prevent backflow of blood, ensuring it flows in one direction towards the heart.

Front

What is the apex of the heart?

Back

The apex is the pointed, inferior portion of the heart that rests on the diaphragm and is oriented towards the left hip.

Front

What is the difference between arteries and veins?

Back

Arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart (except for pulmonary arteries), while veins carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart (except for pulmonary veins).

Front

What is the pericardium?

Back

The pericardium is a double-walled sac that surrounds the heart, providing protection and reducing friction during heartbeats.

Front

What is systemic circulation?

Back

Systemic circulation is the pathway in which oxygenated blood is distributed from the left side of the heart to the rest of the body and returns deoxygenated blood back to the right side of the heart.

Front

What is the function of the aorta?

Back

The aorta is the largest artery in the body, carrying oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to the systemic circulation.