Cardiovascular (1)

• Functions of the cardiovascular system

  • Delivery of nutrients to tissues
  • Removal of metabolites
  • Circulation of hormones
  • Temperature regulation
• Arteries


  • Controlled by autonomic nervous system
  • Surrounded by smooth muscle, contraction/relaxation
  • Regulate blood pressure
• Capillaries


  • Only one cell thick to allow exchange of nutrients such as 02
• Arterioles


  • Thin branches from arteries connecting to capillaries
  • Surrounded by smooth muscle
  • Also called resistance vessels
• Venules


  • Connect capillaries to veins