Double Circulation:

How the heart is adapted to maintain double circulation:

1. Four-Chambered Heart: The human heart consists of four chambers: two atria (left and right) and two ventricles (left and right). The
separation of the chambers prevents the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, allowing for efficient double circulation.
2. Valves: The heart has valves that ensure one-way blood flow. The atrioventricular valves (mitral and tricuspid) prevent the backflow of
blood from the ventricles to the atria, while the semilunar valves (aortic and pulmonary) prevent blood from flowing back into the
ventricles after it is pumped out.
3. Strong Cardiac Muscles: The walls of the heart, especially the ventricles, are composed of strong cardiac muscles. These muscles contract
forcefully to pump blood effectively through both the pulmonary and systemic circulation pathways.
4. Coronary Circulation: The heart itself needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients. Coronary arteries and veins supply blood to the
heart muscle, ensuring its proper functioning.
5. Efficient Oxygen Exchange: In the lungs, the walls of the pulmonary capillaries are thin, allowing for the exchange of carbon dioxide from
the blood and the uptake of oxygen. This oxygenation of blood occurs during pulmonary circulation, preparing it for systemic circulation to
deliver oxygen to the body tissues.
6. Regulation of Heart Rate: The heart rate is regulated by a specialized group of cells called the sinoatrial (SA) node, which acts as the
natural pacemaker. It coordinates the timing of heart contractions, ensuring that the chambers pump blood at the appropriate rate for
efficient circulation.