Double Circulation in the Circulatory System

Key Concepts

Double Circulation

• Blood passes through the heart twice in double circulation
• The heart acts as two pumps in one:
  • Right side: Pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs
  • Left side: Pumps oxygenated blood to the body

Circuits in Double Circulation

Pulmonary Circuit

• Deoxygenated blood:
  • Leaves right ventricle via the pulmonary artery
  • Delivered to the lungs for re-oxygenation
• Oxygenated blood:
  • Returns to the heart via the pulmonary vein
• Short distance, thus the right ventricle has a thinner wall

Systemic Circuit

• Oxygenated blood:
  • Leaves left ventricle via the aorta
  • Delivered to the entire body
• Deoxygenated blood:
  • Returns to the heart via the vena cava into the right atrium
• Long distance, hence the left ventricle has a thicker wall

Benefits of Double Circulation

• Separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood:
  • More efficient
  • Facilitates higher blood pressure
• Higher blood pressure ensures blood reaches all parts of the body

Study Tips

• Use your textbook
• Do past papers
• Listen to your teacher

Credits

• Icons from Noun Project (Pro membership)