What role does the left side of the heart play in the circulatory system?

The left side of the heart plays a critical role in the circulatory system by sending oxygenated blood to the tissues throughout the body. After blood has been oxygenated in the lungs, it returns to the left atrium of the heart, flows into the left ventricle, and is then pumped out through the aorta. This oxygen-rich blood is essential for delivering necessary oxygen and nutrients to various tissues and organs, supporting cellular functions and overall bodily health.

In contrast, the other roles mentioned in the options do not pertain to the left side of the heart. Deoxygenated blood is received by the right side of the heart and pumped to the lungs for oxygenation. The right side is also responsible for pumping blood to the lungs, while temperature regulation is a function performed primarily by the body as a whole, involving skin and other systems, rather than a direct role of either side of the heart.