Systemic circulation

Definition

Systemic circulation is the part of the cardiovascular system that carries oxygenated blood away from the heart to the body and returns deoxygenated blood back to the heart. This process ensures that all body tissues receive the oxygen and nutrients they need for metabolism, while also facilitating the removal of carbon dioxide and other waste products. It's crucial for maintaining homeostasis and overall bodily functions, linking it closely with both the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Systemic circulation begins when oxygenated blood is pumped from the left ventricle into the aorta, distributing it to various organs and tissues.
2. The systemic circuit is significantly longer than pulmonary circulation, as it must deliver blood throughout the entire body.
3. As blood travels through systemic circulation, it supplies oxygen and nutrients to cells while collecting carbon dioxide and metabolic wastes.
4. Veins carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart through larger vessels, culminating in the superior and inferior vena cavae that enter the right atrium.
5. Any dysfunction in systemic circulation can lead to conditions such as hypertension or heart failure, impacting overall health and well-being.

Review Questions

• How does systemic circulation interact with pulmonary circulation in the overall cardiovascular system?
  • Systemic circulation works in tandem with pulmonary circulation to ensure efficient blood flow throughout the body. After oxygenated blood is delivered from the lungs via pulmonary circulation to the left side of the heart, systemic circulation takes over by pumping this oxygen-rich blood out through the aorta to supply tissues. Once tissues use this oxygen, they send deoxygenated blood back to the right side of the heart, where it will then enter pulmonary circulation again for reoxygenation.
• Evaluate the importance of systemic circulation in maintaining homeostasis within the human body.
  • Systemic circulation is vital for maintaining homeostasis as it ensures that all body tissues receive adequate oxygen and nutrients necessary for their functions. By distributing these essential substances and removing waste products like carbon dioxide, systemic circulation supports cellular metabolism and balances internal conditions. Any disruption in this circulatory loop can lead to serious health issues, highlighting its role in sustaining life and overall physiological stability.
• Assess how changes in systemic circulation can influence athletic performance during intense exercise.
  • During intense exercise, systemic circulation undergoes significant changes to meet increased metabolic demands of working muscles. Cardiac output rises as heart rate and stroke volume increase, facilitating greater delivery of oxygenated blood. This improved systemic circulation enhances endurance and performance, allowing athletes to sustain physical activity longer. Conversely, inadequate systemic circulation can lead to fatigue and decreased performance, underscoring its importance for athletes aiming for peak condition.

Related terms

Pulmonary circulation:

The part of the circulatory system responsible for transporting deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs and returning oxygenated blood back to the heart.

Cardiac output: The volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute, reflecting the efficiency of systemic circulation in delivering blood to body tissues.

Aorta: The largest artery in the body that carries oxygen-rich blood from the left ventricle of the heart to distribute it throughout the systemic circulation.