heart

Question 1

Explain four ways in which the structure of the aorta is related to its function.

Answer 1

Elastic tissue to allow stretching / recoil / smoothes out flow of blood / maintains pressure;

2. (Elastic tissue) stretches when ventricles contract

OR

Recoils when ventricle relaxes;

3. Muscle for contraction / vasoconstriction;
4. Thick wall withstands pressure OR stop bursting;
5. Smooth endothelium reduces friction;
6. Aortic valve / semi-lunar valve prevents backflow.