What is the role of the circulatory system in relation to oxygen?

The circulatory system plays a vital role in transporting oxygen throughout the body. When oxygen is inhaled into the lungs, it diffuses into the bloodstream through the alveoli, which are tiny air sacs in the lungs. Red blood cells then bind to this oxygen and carry it via the bloodstream to tissues and organs that require it for cellular respiration and energy production. This process is essential for maintaining the function of bodily systems and ensuring that the cells receive the oxygen needed for metabolic processes.

The other options misrepresent the functions of the circulatory system. Oxygen is not produced within this system, nor is it true that the circulatory system handles no oxygen. Additionally, the circulatory system does not filter oxygen out of the blood; instead, its primary function is to facilitate the delivery of oxygen and also to remove carbon dioxide from the tissues, bringing it back to the lungs for exhalation. This critical transportation mechanism underscores the importance of the circulatory system in sustaining life by ensuring that all parts of the body have sufficient oxygen supply.