Blood Vessels

• What is the primary function of the heart in the circulatory system?

  It acts as the system's pump
• What are the three types of blood vessels discussed?

  Arteries, capillaries, and veins
• What is the role of arteries in the circulatory system?


  • Carry blood away from the heart
  • Transport oxygenated blood (except pulmonary arteries)
• What is the role of capillaries in the circulatory system?

  • Exchange nutrients and oxygen with tissues
  • Remove waste products like carbon dioxide
• What is the role of veins in the circulatory system?

  • Carry blood back to the heart
  • Transport deoxygenated blood (except pulmonary veins)
• Why do arteries need to be strong and elastic?

  To withstand high blood pressure from the heart
• What is the structure of arteries that helps them bear high pressures?

  Thick layers of muscle and elastic tissue
• What is the lumen in blood vessels?

  The hole or space in the middle
• How are capillaries adapted for their function?

  They have walls that are one cell thick
• Why do capillaries have a lower blood pressure than arteries?

  Because they have a larger total cross-sectional area
• What is the function of veins in relation to blood flow?

  Prevent blood from flowing backwards
• What is the structure of veins compared to arteries?

  Veins have thinner walls and larger lumens
• What is the typical pressure of blood in veins?

  Very low pressure
• What is the significance of valves in veins?

  They ensure blood flows towards the heart
• How do you calculate the rate of blood flow?

  Divide blood volume by time
• If 2500 ml of blood passes through the aorta in 8 minutes, what is the rate of blood flow?

  320 milliliters per minute
• What are the key differences between arteries, capillaries, and veins?

  • Arteries: Thick walls, high pressure, carry blood away
  • Capillaries: Thin walls, low pressure, exchange substances
  • Veins: Thin walls, low pressure, carry blood back