BIOL 1050H Lecture Notes - Lecture 7: Hematocrit, Horse Length, Fluid Balance
Circulatory System
Functions of The Circulatory System
Transport
• O2, CO2, nutrients, wastes,
• Hormones
• Stem cells
Protection
• Inflammation,
• Neutralize toxins (antibodies)
• Initiate clotting
Regulation
• Fluid balance
• Stabilizes pH of ECF
• Temperature control
(vasoconstriction/ vasodilation)
The Circulatory System
• Circulatory system:
• The heart, blood vessels, blood
• Cardiovascular system:
• Only the heart and blood vessels
• Hematology—the study of blood
Blood
• A liquid connective tissue consisting
of cells and extracellular matrix
Formed elements:
• Red blood cells, white blood cells,
and platelets
Plasma: extracellular matrix
• Clear, light yellow fluid
• Adults have 4 to 6 L of blood
Hematocrit – Volume of RBC
• Centrifuge blood to separate
components
• Erythrocytes
