Question

The main difference between the pulmonary circuit and the systemic circuit is that the pulmonary circuit __________

a. has a lower cardiac output.
b. produces lower pressures.
c. produces more filtration
d. has both lower cardiac output and produces a lower pressure

Answer 1

The main difference is that the pulmonary circuit produces lower pressures when compared to the systemic circuit, despite having the same cardiac output.

Step-by-step explanation:

Both the pulmonary and systemic circuits are essential parts of the human circulatory system.

The pulmonary circuit specifically transports blood to and from the lungs for gas exchange, allowing it to pick up oxygen and deliver carbon dioxide for exhalation.

Moreover, the systemic circuit moves oxygenated blood to the body's tissues and returns deoxygenated blood to the heart.

It's important to note that the cardiac output, which is the volume of blood the heart pumps per minute, is the same for both circuits.

However, the pulmonary circuit operates at a lower pressure compared to the systemic circuit which has to push blood through the entire body, hence encountering greater resistance.