You know that the respiratory and circulatory systems work closely together to supply oxygen to the body and remove carbon dioxide, which is vital for cellular function and overall health.
Respiratory System
- The respiratory system includes organs such as the nose, mouth, pharynx, larynx (voice box), trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, lungs, alveoli (tiny air sacs), diaphragm, and associated muscles and blood vessels
- Its primary function is to bring oxygen into the body through inhalation and expel carbon dioxide through exhalation
- Air enters through the nose or mouth, is filtered and humidified, passes through the pharynx and larynx, then travels down the trachea and bronchi into the lungs
- Gas exchange occurs in the alveoli, where oxygen diffuses into the blood in capillaries and carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled
- The respiratory system also plays roles in vocalization (voice production) and olfaction (sense of smell)
Circulatory System (in relation to respiratory system)
- The circulatory system transports oxygenated blood from the lungs to body tissues and returns deoxygenated blood back to the lungs for re-oxygenation
- The heart pumps oxygen-rich blood through arteries to tissues and collects carbon dioxide-rich blood through veins to send back to the lungs
- This system works in tandem with the respiratory system to ensure continuous oxygen supply and removal of metabolic waste gases like carbon dioxide
Together, these systems maintain the body's oxygen and carbon dioxide balance, supporting cellular metabolism and overall physiological function
