Which of the following organ systems is primarily responsible for transporting nutrients, gases, and wastes throughout the body?

• A. Digestive system
• B. Nervous system
• C. Circulatory system
• D. Respiratory system

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by identifying the primary function of each organ system listed in the problem. For example, the digestive system is responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, while the nervous system controls and coordinates body activities through electrical signals.
2. Step 2: Understand the role of the circulatory system. It is primarily responsible for transporting nutrients, gases (such as oxygen and carbon dioxide), and wastes throughout the body via blood vessels. This includes the heart, blood, and blood vessels.
3. Step 3: Compare the circulatory system's function to the respiratory system. The respiratory system is responsible for gas exchange, specifically bringing oxygen into the body and removing carbon dioxide, but it does not transport these gases throughout the body.
4. Step 4: Eliminate the systems that do not match the description of transporting nutrients, gases, and wastes. The digestive system and nervous system do not perform this function, and the respiratory system is limited to gas exchange rather than transport.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the circulatory system is the correct answer because it fulfills the role of transporting nutrients, gases, and wastes throughout the body, integrating with other systems to maintain homeostasis.