Cardiovascular System

The function of the cardiovascular system is to oxygenate blood in the lungs and distribute the oxygenated blood to the tissues of the body. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide that accumulates as a result of metabolism of oxygen within the tissues is removed from the tissues and transported to the lungs where it is released from the blood and exhaled.

The cardiovascular system comprises:

1. Heart - A muscular pump to propel the blood

2. Blood vessels - Transport system of the blood

   • Arteries convey blood to thin-walled capillaries where gaseous exchange takes place

   • Veins return blood to the heart.

The cardiovascular system is made up of:

1. Pulmonary Circulation

   • This circulation ensures that blood is directed from the heart to the lungs where it can be oxygenated while carbon dioxide can be removed.

2. Systemic Circulation

   • This circulation ensures that oxygenated blood - from the lungs - reaches all the tissues of the body and that carbon dioxide is removed. The digestive system works with the circulatory system to ensure that the organ systems in the body receive the nutrition they require.