Introduction to the Cardiovascular System
Types of Cross section:
Artery cross section:
• Oxygen-rich blood is transported away from the heart
• High blood pressure is maintained by strong, muscular walls and high pressure
ensures blood flow in just one direction
• Elasticity, arteries are close to the heart
Vein cross section:
• Deoxygenated blood is transported back to the heart
• Lower blood pressure inside, therefore thinner walls
• Valves inside prevent incorrect direction flow of blood
Capillary cross section:
• Connects arteries and veins
• Oxygen and nutrients are delivered to cells, carbon dioxide and waste are
removed
• 1 cell thick (5-10 micromillimetres diameter)
• Can be easily damaged in the event of various health conditions
• Endothelial cells are surrounded by basement membrane
Blood fractionation:
Plasma (55%): protein, water, nutrients
Buffy Coat (1%): white blood cells & platelets
Erythrocytes/red blood cells (45%)
Heart rate:
Rhythmic expansion and contraction of arteries as blood is ejected from the heart
during each heartbeat.
• Generated by blood surge of the left ventricle
• Measured in beats per minute
Types of Cross section:
Artery cross section:
• Oxygen-rich blood is transported away from the heart
• High blood pressure is maintained by strong, muscular walls and high pressure
ensures blood flow in just one direction
• Elasticity, arteries are close to the heart
Vein cross section:
• Deoxygenated blood is transported back to the heart
• Lower blood pressure inside, therefore thinner walls
• Valves inside prevent incorrect direction flow of blood
Capillary cross section:
• Connects arteries and veins
• Oxygen and nutrients are delivered to cells, carbon dioxide and waste are
removed
• 1 cell thick (5-10 micromillimetres diameter)
• Can be easily damaged in the event of various health conditions
• Endothelial cells are surrounded by basement membrane
Blood fractionation:
Plasma (55%): protein, water, nutrients
Buffy Coat (1%): white blood cells & platelets
Erythrocytes/red blood cells (45%)
Heart rate:
Rhythmic expansion and contraction of arteries as blood is ejected from the heart
during each heartbeat.
• Generated by blood surge of the left ventricle
• Measured in beats per minute
