Answer Happy

BEFORE YOU MOVE ON... << LOOKING BACK Blood is a component of the cardiovascular system. It performs a variety of functions that fall into five categories: Transportation of substances: Blood delivers oxygen and nutrients needed for metabolic activities, to all body tissues. It transports carbon dioxide to the lungs and cellular wastes to the kidneys for elimination. Hormones from the endocrine glands are distributed by blood to various target organs. • Regulatory activities: Blood proteins act as buffers that function to maintain stable blood pH levels. Diffusion between blood capillaries and interstitial fluids stabilizes blood concentrations of calcium, potassium, and other important ions. • Prevention of fluid loss: Platelets and various blood proteins protect the body from excessive blood loss by repairing damaged blood vessels and forming blood clots. • Defensive activities: White blood cells, antibodies, and various blood proteins protect the body from infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Regulation of body temperature: Blood distributes heat throughout the body and shunts excess heat to the skin's surface for elimination. Explain why each of the five functions, described above, is important for maintaining homeostasis. CS Scanned with CamScanner 368 Blood smear LM X 800 LOOKING FORWARD >> Blood is distributed to all parts of the body by the pumping action of the heart. In the next laboratory exercise, you will examine the external and internal anatomy of the heart, identify the major blood vessels of the coronary circulation, and understand how blood flows through the heart chambers.