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Learn: The Heart and Blood Vessels
Edexcel A Level Biology SNAB A
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Welcome!Today we'll learn about the heart and blood vessels, key components of the circulatory system. This lesson will help you understand how blood is transported around the body.
What is the Circulatory System?The circulatory system transports oxygen, nutrients, and waste products through the body. It consists of the heart, blood vessels, and blood.
The HeartThe heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood throughout the body. It has four chambers: two atria (receive blood) and two ventricles (pump blood).The heart works by contracting and relaxing to move blood through its chambers and into blood vessels.
Quick check: What is the primary function of the heart?
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Blood VesselsBlood vessels are structures through which blood flows. There are three main types:Arteries carry blood away from the heart.Veins return blood to the heart.Capillaries are tiny vessels where exchange of substances occurs.
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The Structure of the HeartThe heart is divided into left and right sides, separated by the septum. Each side has an atrium and a ventricle.Valves between chambers ensure blood flows in one direction. For example, the tricuspid valve is between the right atrium and right ventricle.
The {{blank0}} valve prevents backflow between the right atrium and right ventricle.
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Blood Flow Through the BodyBlood moves in two circuits: the pulmonary circuit (to the lungs) and the systemic circuit (to the rest of the body).Oxygen-poor blood is pumped to the lungs by the right side of the heart, while oxygen-rich blood is pumped to the body by the left side.
Which chambers handle oxygen-poor blood? (Select all that apply)
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Heart RateThe heart rate is the number of beats per minute. It is controlled by electrical signals from the sinoatrial (SA) node, the heart's natural pacemaker.Exercise, stress, and hormones can affect heart rate.
Quick check: What part of the heart controls the heart rate?
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Blood PressureBlood pressure measures the force of blood against vessel walls. It is expressed as two numbers: systolic (when the heart contracts) and diastolic (when the heart relaxes).Healthy blood pressure is essential for preventing damage to organs and vessels.
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Review Time!Great work! You've learned about the heart, blood vessels, and how blood circulates. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.
What is the purpose of valves in the heart?
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Which blood vessels carry oxygen-rich blood? (Select all that apply)
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The {{blank0}} circuit transports blood to the lungs, while the {{blank1}} circuit transports blood to the rest of the body.
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
Start the lesson to answer this matching question
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