The circulatory system is an intricate network responsible for transporting blood, nutrients, and gases throughout the body, maintaining a balance between oxygen supply and waste removal.
This vital system comprises the heart, blood vessels, and blood itself, working together to sustain life. The blood vessels are of three major types:
- Arteries - Carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart
- Veins - Return deoxygenated blood back to the heart
- Capillaries - Tiny vessels where the exchange of gases and nutrients occurs
In double circulation, blood circulates twice through the heart in one complete body loop: once for oxygenation (in the lungs) and once to deliver oxygenated blood to the body's cells.
By separating these two processes, double circulation ensures high efficiency in oxygenating blood and transporting it throughout the body. It is essential for supporting higher metabolic rates and maintaining stable internal environments.