National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) Practice Exam

Which system is composed of the heart, blood, and blood vessels?

1. Respiratory system

2. Circulatory system

3. Cardiovascular system

4. Endocrine system

The correct answer is: Cardiovascular system

The correct choice is the cardiovascular system, which is specifically responsible for the circulation of blood throughout the body. This system includes the heart, which pumps blood, blood vessels that transport blood, and blood itself, which carries oxygen, nutrients, and other essential components to tissues. While the term "circulatory system" is often used interchangeably with the cardiovascular system in casual contexts, the more precise terminology used in physiology and healthcare refers to it as the cardiovascular system. This distinction emphasizes the heart and blood vessels' roles in managing blood flow and circulation. The respiratory system, on the other hand, is primarily involved in the exchange of gases, specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide, between the body and the environment, so it does not encompass the circulatory aspects related to blood movement. The endocrine system is responsible for hormone production and regulation, contributing to various bodily functions but not specifically the movement of blood. Thus, the cardiovascular system accurately describes the network that includes the heart, blood, and blood vessels.