EmSAT Biology Flashcards

What is the function of the heart?

Answer: To pump blood through the circulatory system

The heart is a muscular pump that circulates blood throughout the body. It delivers oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removes waste products via the circulatory system.

What is the role of red blood cells?

Answer: Transporting oxygen via hemoglobin

Red blood cells (erythrocytes) transport oxygen from the lungs to body tissues using the protein hemoglobin. They also carry CO₂ back to the lungs for exhalation.

Where does gas exchange occur in the lungs?

Answer: Alveoli

Gas exchange (O₂ into blood, CO₂ out of blood) occurs in the alveoli, tiny air sacs in the lungs. Their large surface area and thin walls make them ideal for efficient diffusion.

What is the role of the liver?

Answer: Filtering blood, producing bile, and metabolizing nutrients

The liver performs over 500 functions including filtering toxins from blood, producing bile for digestion, metabolizing carbohydrates/proteins/fats, and synthesizing blood clotting proteins.

Which part of the nervous system controls voluntary movement?

Answer: Somatic nervous system

The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles. The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion.

What is homeostasis?

Answer: The maintenance of a stable internal environment

Homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable internal environment within an organism despite changes in external conditions. Examples include regulating body temperature and blood glucose levels.