Transport in the Body - Blood and Cardiovascular System

Overview of Concepts

• This document contains study notes from a unit on transport in the body, covering blood and the cardiovascular system, and the respiratory system.
• Various objectives for each concept are included focusing on description, explanation, construction, and application of knowledge.
• Vocabulary terms, relating to components and processes within each body system are also included.

Concept 1: Blood

• Blood plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis.
• Blood is composed of plasma, leukocytes, thrombocytes, and erythrocytes.
• The shape of a red blood cell (erythrocyte) contributes to its function.
• Hematopoiesis connects with other body systems.
• Steps involved in hemostasis are explained in detail.
• Eight different blood types in humans are detailed, along with the factors contributing to the different types and the implications of incorrect blood transfusions.

Concept 2: The Cardiovascular System

• The cardiovascular system uses the heart, blood vessels, and blood to maintain homeostasis.
• Factors causing resistance to blood flow are outlined.
• The location of the heart in the body is described through anatomical terminology.
• The purpose of the pericardial cavity is explained.
• The heart's interior, including atria, ventricles, valves, and major arteries and veins, and the function of valves are explained with descriptions and diagrams.
• The pathway of oxygen-poor blood transforming into oxygen-rich blood in the body is described.
• The differences in pulmonary, systemic, and coronary circulation are detailed.
• Cardiac muscle is unique from other muscle tissue.
• The cardiac conduction system works and the mechanism of heartbeats are explained.
• How the heart uses electrical and mechanical events in its cardiac cycle are explained.

Concept 3: The Respiratory System

• The respiratory system works with the cardiovascular system to deliver oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the body.
• Conducting and respiratory zones and their structures are differentiated.
• The structure of lungs and bronchi are detailed.
• The pathway of air to reach the alveoli in schematic or flowchart format is presented.
• Alveolar sacs, and alveoli, are detailed through sketches or diagrams.
• The gas exchange in lungs and tissues is described.
• The role of the diaphragm is summarized.
• The relationship between volume, pressure, and air flow is explained.
• How inspiration and expiration work together to allow for breathing and how respiration is necessary for homeostasis is explained in cellular context .
• Students need to identify, and explain the functions of various respiratory system components.