In mammals and birds, why it is necessary to separate oxygenated and deoxygenated blood?
Double circulation:
- A mechanism in which blood circulates twice through the heart in one complete cycle is known as double circulation.
- Systemic circulation and pulmonary circulation are two pathways in which the blood flows in double circulation.
- The double circulation do not let the mixing or allow less mixing of deoxygenated and oxygenated blood.
- Double circulation is present in birds and mammals.
Reason for the presence of double circulation:
- The circulatory system in birds and mammals consists of oxygenated and deoxydenated blood.
- However, they have a double circulation system where the oxygenated as well as deoxygenated blood remain separate.
- This is essential to maintain the body temperature efficiently over a wide range.
- As mammals and birds require to keep their body warm, they require a higher supply of oxygen.
- Thus, it is beneficial if the oxygenated blood remains separate as its mixing with deoxygenated blood can make the entire blood impure.