This document contains vital information about the cardiovascular system, like its function, essential characteristics, importance of the cardiovascular system and also the different organs present in the cardiovascular system.
Learning outcomes
Be able to describe the major blood vessels, structure and function
Understand the composition of blood
Understand many parts of blood
Knowledge of the anatomy of the heart
Understand coronary circulation
Know the pathway of blood through the heart and lungs
I will look at the circulatory system first, then look at the heart
💡 Overview
Physical Characteristics of Blood
Blood: a sticky, opaque fluid with a metallic taste
The colour varies from scarlet (oxygen-rich) to dark red (oxygen-poor)
The pH of blood is 7.35-7.45
Temperature 38ºC, slightly higher than “normal” body temperature
Accounts for about 8% of body weight
Cardiovascular system 1
, The average volume of blood: 5-6 litres for males and 4.5 litres for females
Composition of Blood
Blood: a fluid connective tissue
Composed of liquid plasma (55%) and formed elements
Formed elements include:
Erythrocytes: red blood cells (RBCs)-45%
Leukocytes: white blood cells (WBCs)-<1%
Platelets- < 1%
Hematocrit: the percentage of RBCs out of the total blood volume
Functions of Blood: Distribution
Blood transports:
Oxygen from the lungs and nutrients from the digestive tract to tissues
Metabolic waste from cells to the lungs (CO2) and kidneys, and liver for
processing or elimination
Hormones from endocrine glands to target organs
Functions of Blood: Regulation
Blood maintains:
Appropriate body temperature by absorbing and distributing heat
Normal pH in body tissues using buffer systems
Adequate fluid volume in the circulatory system
Functions of Blood: Protection
Blood prevents blood loss by:
Active plasma proteins and platelets
initiating clot formation when a vessel is broken
Prevents infection by:
Synthesising and utilising antibodies
Cardiovascular system 2
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