What is the main function of systemic circulation?

The primary function of systemic circulation is to carry oxygenated blood throughout the body. This circulation pathway begins in the left side of the heart, where oxygen-rich blood is pumped into the aorta and then through a network of arteries that distribute the blood to all tissues and organs. As the blood travels through the body, it delivers essential oxygen and nutrients to the cells for their metabolic processes.

After the oxygen is utilized by the cells, the blood becomes deoxygenated and returns to the heart via the veins, completing the cycle. This process is vital for maintaining the overall health of bodily tissues and ensures that they receive the energy required for proper functioning.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe systemic circulation. The removal of waste typically occurs in the pulmonary circulation or through the kidneys and liver, not directly from the heart. Cooling the blood and regulating hydration levels are functions managed by other physiological systems.