Circulatory System Model
Simulating Blood Flow Through Valves, Veins, and Arteries
Explore how blood circulates through the body. Observe the differences between arteries and veins, watch valves in action, and see how heart rate affects blood flow.
Heart Rate: 72 BPM
Observation:
The circulatory system is a closed network with the heart as its pump. Arteries carry oxygenated blood (red) away from the heart, while veins return deoxygenated blood (blue) back to the heart.
The Science Behind Circulation
Key Components:
Circulatory system delivers oxygen and nutrients while removing waste:
- Arteries: Thick-walled vessels carrying blood away from heart
- Veins: Thin-walled vessels with valves returning blood to heart
- Valves: Prevent backflow, especially in veins and heart chambers
- Capillaries: Microscopic vessels where gas exchange occurs
Blood Flow:
Right heart → Lungs (oxygenation) → Left heart → Body → Right heart. Valves ensure one-way flow while heart contractions provide pressure.
