8.7 - Structure and Function of Blood Vessels Flashcards
1
Q
What do arteries do?
A
Arteries carry blood AWAY from the heart. Layers of muscle in the walls make them strong and elastic fibres allow them to stretch, helping withstand high pressure.
2
Q
What is the function of veins?
A
Veins carry blood TOWARDS the heart. The lumen is wide to allow low pressure blood to flow through, and they have valves to ensure blood flows in the right direction.
3
Q
What is the role of capillaries?
A
Capillaries allow blood to flow very close to cells to enable substances to move between them.
They have one cell thick walls for a short diffusion pathway and permeable walls for substance movement.
