Circulation: Definition

and Importance
Circulation refers to the movement of blood, nutrients, and oxygen throughout
the body. It is essential for delivering vital resources to cells and removing waste
products, enabling the proper functioning of all bodily systems.

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by Mohamed Khan
Types of Circulation: Systemic
and Pulmonary
The human circulatory system has two main circuits: the systemic circulation,
which pumps blood to the body's tissues, and the pulmonary circulation, which
transports blood to and from the lungs for gas exchange.
Blood: Composition and Functions
Blood is a complex fluid comprising red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. It is
responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and immune cells throughout the body, as well as
removing waste and regulating body temperature.
Plasma: Composition and Roles
Plasma is the liquid component of blood, making up about 55% of its total volume. It is composed of water,
proteins, electrolytes, and various other molecules that play critical roles in maintaining homeostasis, blood
clotting, and immune function.
Functions of Plasma
1 Transport
Plasma transports hormones, nutrients,
waste products, and other essential
substances throughout the body.
2 Clotting
Plasma contains clotting factors that
facilitate the blood clotting process,
which is crucial for wound healing.

3 Immune Defense
Plasma carries antibodies and other immune cells that help protect the body against infections
and diseases.
Serum: Composition and
Characteristics
Serum is the clear, yellowish liquid that remains after blood has clotted and the
clot has been removed. It is composed of water, electrolytes, and a variety of
proteins, including albumin and globulins, which play important roles in
maintaining the body's homeostasis.
Differences between Plasma and Serum
Plasma Serum Similarities

Contains clotting factors
Includes all blood components
except red blood cells
Does not contain clotting
factors
Lacks the cellular components
of blood
Both are liquid components of
blood
Both contain proteins,
electrolytes, and other
molecules
Significance of Circulation in the Body
Oxygen and Nutrient Delivery
The circulatory system transports oxygen and essential nutrients to every cell in the
body, enabling them to function properly.

Waste Removal
It also removes metabolic waste products, such as carbon dioxide, from the cells and
transports them to the lungs and kidneys for removal from the body.

Immune Response
The circulatory system distributes immune cells and antibodies throughout the body,
allowing the immune system to respond effectively to threats and infections.