Differentiation Between Pulmonary and Systemic Circulation

Overview of Systemic Circulation: Function, Pathway, and Importance

Systemic circulation is a vital component of cardiovascular physiology, ensuring oxygenated blood reaches tissues throughout the body.

Function

Systemic circulation delivers oxygen-rich blood from the left ventricle to the body's organs and tissues, supporting cellular metabolism and waste removal.

Pathway

• Left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood into the aorta.
• Blood travels through systemic arteries to tissues.
• Oxygen exchange occurs in capillary networks.
• Deoxygenated blood returns via systemic veins to the right atrium.

Importance

Efficient systemic circulation is crucial for homeostasis, organ function, and metabolic processes.

Comparison with Pulmonary Circulation

While systemic circulation distributes oxygenated blood, pulmonary circulation is responsible for oxygen exchange within the lungs.