blood vessels

Question 1

describe the structure of an artery

Answer 1

• **Tunica intima **- inner layer consists of endothelium and a thin layer of elastic and connective tissue
• **Tunica media **– middle layer consists of elastic connective tissue in larger arteries and will change to consist of more smooth muscle in middle to small arteries
• **Tunica adventitia **– outermost layer consists of connective tissue

Question 2

arterioles

Answer 2

the distribution and regulation of blood pressure, consists of an endothelial layer, an elastic layer, and a layer of smooth muscle. The elastic and smooth muscle fibres gradually disappear as they get smaller

Question 3

capillaries

Answer 3

gas exchange occurs, just an endothelial layer (essentially an extension of the inner lining of the larger vessels.

Question 4

venules

Answer 4

tiny veins continuous with the capillaries

Question 5

Veins

Answer 5

can hold large amount of blood volume without much pressure change, 3 layers the same as arteries, but have a much less developed tunica media with less elastic and smooth muscle tissue, Medium to large sized veins contain one way valve that aid venous return