Human Body Systems Flashcards

Grade 5 · Science · Flashcards

Key vocabulary for the major human body systems and their functions.

Flashcards

Organ system: A group of organs that work together to perform a specific body function.
Circulatory system: The heart and blood vessels that transport blood, oxygen, nutrients, and waste throughout the body.
Heart: The muscular pump of the circulatory system; beats about 100,000 times per day.
Artery: Blood vessel carrying oxygen-rich blood away from the heart.
Vein: Blood vessel returning oxygen-poor blood to the heart.
Respiratory system: Lungs, trachea, and diaphragm; brings oxygen into the body and removes carbon dioxide.
Alveoli: Tiny air sacs in the lungs where oxygen enters the blood and CO2 leaves.
Digestive system: Organs that break down food into nutrients the body can absorb and use.
Small intestine: The 20-foot-long organ where most nutrient absorption from digested food takes place.
Large intestine: Absorbs water from undigested food and forms solid waste.
Nervous system: Brain, spinal cord, and nerves that control and coordinate all body functions.
Skeletal system: All 206 bones plus cartilage and joints; provides structure, protection, and movement.
Muscular system: Muscles and tendons that enable movement and maintain posture.
Hemoglobin: The protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to body tissues.
Villi: Tiny finger-like projections lining the small intestine that increase surface area for nutrient absorption.