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Explanation of the functions of the human body

The human body is made up of many different systems which all perform certain functions. These functions work in harmony together and allow the human body to operate as one unit.

The respiratory system's function is to ensure that oxygen is distributed around the body and waste products,such as carbon dioxide are excreted from the body. When a person inhales, oxygen is taken in and transported around the body to every cell,via the lungs. Haemoglobin is formed when the red blood cells take up the oxygen from the lungs and these travel round the body to nourish every cell. This is one example of how two systems function together.

The circulatory system's function is to transport blood to every part of the body, ensuring that oxygen reaches every single cell.The circulatory system comprises of the heart, arteries, veins, capillaries, arterioles, these are all involved in the distribution of gases, waste and nutrients, and includes the bodies defense,or immune system. The cardiovascular system is also linked to the circulatory system.It also transports away waste products such as carbon dioxide,which is released via the lungs,as deoxygenated blood.

The nervous system's function is to provide sensory awareness and is responsible for our thoughts and learning ability as well as controlling our bodies status quo or homeostasis. The brain, spinal cord, nerves and ganglions make up the nervous system. The nervous system sends out electric impulses to various parts of the body via nerves, to regulate for example body temperature, or to control endocrine glands.Put simply, the nervous system makes sure our bodies are aware of external and internal stimuli.

The digestive system's function is to provide the body with nutrients and to rid the body of waste, a by product of the food absorbed after digestion. The digestive system is made up of the stomach, although the process is started off in the mouth and esophagus, duodenum, jejunum, pancreas, small intestine, large intestine, liver and gall bladder, appendix and anus. The appendix is not now needed in modern man however. The small intestine's function is absorption and also includes the G.A.L.T.Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue, this is one part of the immune system.

The reproductive system's function is to ensure the continuity of the human race.
Here is were a woman's and man's reproductive system is different. A woman's system is made up a vagina, birth canal, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
A man's comprises of a penis,testes and prostate.

The skeletal system's function is to provide the body with support, to enable it to stand upright, and also to provide protection for internal organs. It also manufactures blood cells, both red and white, which are necessary for the immune system and for all the bodies other processes. The skeletal system is made up of bones, tendons, muscles, ligaments, and cartilage.

Other systems and functions of the body are the sensory system, sight, touch, smell, taste and hearing. And organs such as the skin, glandular organs and the lymphatic system . All these systems and functions work together as one unit.

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