The main function of the circulatory system is to transport oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and other essential substances to the body's organs, muscles, and tissues to support energy production, growth, and repair. It also removes waste products such as carbon dioxide from the cells to be expelled from the body. This system ensures that all cells receive what they need to function properly and remain healthy
. Specifically, the heart pumps oxygen-poor blood to the lungs where it picks up oxygen and releases carbon dioxide. The oxygen-rich blood then returns to the heart and is pumped through arteries to the rest of the body. Blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and capillaries, facilitate the delivery of oxygen and nutrients and the removal of waste at the cellular level
. In summary, the circulatory system's main functions are:
- Delivering oxygen and nutrients to cells throughout the body
- Transporting hormones to target tissues
- Removing carbon dioxide and metabolic wastes from cells
- Maintaining blood flow to sustain life and support cellular functions
Additional roles include regulating body temperature and aiding in wound clotting, but the primary function remains the circulation of blood to sustain the body's cells
