During exercise, the body's demand for oxygen increases. Which cardiovascular function supports this demand?

The body's demand for oxygen during exercise is met primarily through an increased heart rate. When physical activity occurs, the muscles require more oxygen to produce energy, and the cardiovascular system responds by elevating the heart rate. This increase in heart rate allows for a greater volume of blood to be pumped through the body, delivering more oxygen to the muscles and removing metabolic waste products like carbon dioxide.

In addition to the increased heart rate, the cardiovascular system also increases stroke volume, which is the amount of blood ejected from the heart with each beat. Together, these adjustments lead to enhanced cardiac output, which is essential for meeting the heightened oxygen needs during exercise.

This physiological response is a key aspect of how the body adapts to increased demands during physical activity, making it crucial for maintaining performance and efficiency.