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Learn: The Heart and Blood Vessels
Edexcel A Level Biology SNAB A
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Welcome!Welcome to today's lesson on The Heart and Blood Vessels. We'll explore how these vital parts of the cardiovascular system work together to transport blood around the body. Let's get started!
What is the Cardiovascular System?The cardiovascular system is responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products around the body via the blood. It includes the heart, blood vessels (arteries, veins, and capillaries), and the blood itself.
The Structure of the HeartThe heart is a muscular organ located in the chest cavity. It has four chambers: the right and left atria (upper chambers) and the right and left ventricles (lower chambers). The walls of the ventricles are thicker because they need to pump blood with greater force.
Blood VesselsThere are three main types of blood vessels: arteries, which carry blood away from the heart; veins, which return blood to the heart; and capillaries, which exchange substances like oxygen and carbon dioxide between blood and tissues.
Quick check: Which blood vessels carry blood away from the heart?
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How the Heart WorksThe heart pumps blood through the body in two main circuits: the pulmonary circuit (to the lungs) and the systemic circuit (to the rest of the body). Oxygen-poor blood enters the right atrium, moves to the right ventricle, and is pumped to the lungs. Oxygen-rich blood returns to the left atrium, moves to the left ventricle, and is pumped to the body.
Blood flows into the heart through the {{blank0}} atrium, and exits through the {{blank1}} ventricle.
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Arteries vs VeinsArteries have thick, muscular walls to withstand high pressure as they carry blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Veins have thinner walls and valves to prevent the backflow of blood as it returns to the heart under low pressure.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Blood Flow RegulationBlood flow is regulated by blood pressure, which is the force exerted by blood against the walls of blood vessels. Blood pressure is highest in the arteries and lowest in the veins. It is influenced by the heart's pumping action and the resistance of blood vessels.
Where is blood pressure highest in the body?
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The Role of ValvesValves are found in veins and the heart to ensure blood flows in one direction. They prevent backflow, which is especially important in veins where blood is under low pressure and needs to travel against gravity.
Review Time!Great work! You've learned about the heart, blood vessels, and how blood is circulated through the body. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.
Which of the following statements are true about blood vessels? (Select all that apply)
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The {{blank0}} prevents backflow of blood in veins.
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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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