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SingaporeSports Science

Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems

5 dot points across 5 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What does blood carry, and how do arteries, veins and capillaries deliver it around the body during exercise?

Describe the components and functions of blood and the structure of arteries, veins and capillaries, including vascular shunting in exercise
A focused answer to the O-Level ESS outcome on blood and vessels. The components of blood, the structure and role of arteries, veins and capillaries, and vascular shunting during exercise.
8 min answer →

How does breathing move air in and out, and how does gas exchange respond to exercise?

Explain the mechanics of breathing and gas exchange, and describe how breathing rate and tidal volume change with exercise
A focused answer to the O-Level ESS outcome on breathing. The mechanics of inspiration and expiration, gas exchange by diffusion, and how breathing rate, tidal volume and minute ventilation change with exercise.
9 min answer →

How is the heart structured, and how does its double pump send blood to the lungs and the body?

Describe the structure of the heart and trace the path of blood through its chambers and major vessels
A focused answer to the O-Level ESS outcome on the heart. The four chambers, the valves, the major vessels, and the double-circulation path of blood through the heart.
9 min answer →

How does the heart cycle through filling and pumping, and how do heart rate, stroke volume and cardiac output change with exercise?

Describe the cardiac cycle and define heart rate, stroke volume and cardiac output, calculating target heart-rate training zones
A focused answer to the O-Level ESS outcome on the cardiac cycle. Diastole and systole, heart rate, stroke volume and cardiac output, and how to calculate target heart-rate training zones.
9 min answer →

How is the respiratory system structured, and how does the path of air carry oxygen to the alveoli?

Describe the structure of the respiratory system and trace the passage of air from the nose to the alveoli
A focused answer to the O-Level ESS outcome on respiratory structure. The pathway of air, the structures from trachea to alveoli, and the features of the alveoli that suit gas exchange.
8 min answer →