Blood vessels Flashcards
How is the oxygenated and de-oxygenated blood carried around by the body? Explain the whole process.
After body circulation, the deoxygenated blood is brought back to the heart by a vessel called Vena Cava. Then it’s taken to the lungs for oxidation by Pulmonary Artery. After becoming oxidised, the blood comes back to the heart by Pulmonary vein. And eventually, that oxygenated blood is taken away from the heart to the rest of the body by Aorta.
What is an artery?
Any type of blood vessel taking the blood away from the heart.
Explain what is capillary, its structure and its function.
The capillaries are tiny blood channels that connect arteries and veins. Their job is to exchange substances with cells (taking in CO2, giving O2). They’re relatively tiny, with thin walls and so have a lower blood pressure.
Which blood vessel always have blood at very high pressure?
The arteries, as the blood is just taken away and the heart pumps it forcibly.
What is a lumen?
The hollow-opening inner part of blood vessels.
Which vessel has the biggest lumen within it? And thickest wall?
The veins have the biggest lumen within it and arteries have the thickest wall.
Explain how veins are adapted to their function.
The blood inside veins is at low pressure, meaning they don’t contain thick wall. They are relatively large, and contains valves which prevent the blood from flowing backwards.
How is the diffusion distance minimised by the capillaries?
By having thin wall, they also make the C.G steeper.
What is the function of lumen in vessels?
The arteriolar lumen regulates the blood flow through the capillaries.
