Difference Between Open and Closed Circulatory System

Open Circulatory System vs Closed Circulatory System

Blood circulation is among the important things that we have to know when talking about how our body works. Just picture the body as one wonderful and complex machine that needs different parts and systems to perform beautifully and efficiently. Our body is composed of different systems that work in a coordinated manner, with one system supporting the other, for us to perform and function normally. Among the systems, the circulatory system may just be one of the most vital systems in the body that we have to think about.

All animals in Earth have a circulatory system of their own. Some animals possess the most rudimentary and basic circulatory system in their body, while others, such as human beings, have a very complex and unique circulatory system. This basically refers to the two main types of a circulatory system, the open circulatory system and the closed circulatory system. How are they different from each other?

Before we go any further, we have to know that the heart is the most important organ in the circulatory system. The heart is considered as the pumping machine that directs blood to the different organs. Still, there is a difference in how blood is transported in an open system with that of a closed system. Let us now talk about it.

First is the open circulatory system. Most small animals have this type of circulatory system. It is said to be the simpler system between the two. Think of it this way, in an open circulatory system, blood is directly pumped from the heart to the different organs at a lower pressure. It allows all organs of the body to receive blood without having it pass through arteries or even large veins.

In this method, less energy is required for blood to be distributed. In this system, since oxygen is used up slower. It is ideal for small animals that possess a small body and with slower metabolism rate since less energy is needed for blood to travel.

In a closed circulatory system, blood passes through different and distinct blood vessels for it to be reach the different organs. In this set-up, there is a pulmonary circulation and a systemic circulation. Blood also moves due to a difference in the pressure inside the blood vessels. This system is ideal for larger animals for it to adequate supply blood to the extremities.

This is the main difference between the two. You can read further if you want to know more this topic.

Summary:

1. The circulatory system supplies blood which contains oxygen, nutrients, and other substances to the different cells of the body.

2. An open circulatory system allows blood to be distributed to the different organs in a lower pressure.

3. In a closed circulatory system, blood passes through blood vessels and moves due to a difference in blood pressures.

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