Which of the following is a function of the circulatory system?

The transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide is a primary function of the circulatory system. This system, comprising the heart, blood vessels, and blood, facilitates the movement of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and carries carbon dioxide, a metabolic waste product, back from the tissues to the lungs for exhalation. Oxygen is vital for cellular respiration, enabling cells to produce energy, while the removal of carbon dioxide is essential for maintaining the body’s pH balance and preventing toxicity.

The circulatory system also contributes to other functions such as nutrient transport, immune response, and temperature regulation, but its core role in gas exchange is foundational. Understanding the specific function of transporting gases highlights the importance of the circulatory system in maintaining homeostasis within the body.