What is the primary function of the cardiovascular system?

The primary function of the cardiovascular system is to transport blood, nutrients, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and hormones throughout the body. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis by ensuring that all bodily tissues receive the necessary substances for cellular function while removing waste products. Oxygen is delivered to cells for metabolism, and carbon dioxide, a waste product of this process, is transported back to the lungs for exhalation. Additionally, the cardiovascular system circulates nutrients obtained from digested food to cells and carries hormones from endocrine glands to target organs, coordinating various physiological processes.

While other options may describe important functions of different systems in the body, they do not represent the primary role of the cardiovascular system. Detoxification is primarily managed by the liver and kidneys, digestion is handled by the gastrointestinal system, and regulation of body temperature involves a complex interaction of multiple systems, including the integumentary and endocrine systems. Thus, the comprehensive role of the cardiovascular system in transporting essential substances solidifies its primary function as indicated in the correct answer.