Sistema Vascular Flashcards
What is the main characteristic of the media layer in arteries?
Thicker than in veins
The media layer contains smooth muscle, which is more pronounced in arteries.
What is the primary function of arteries?
Conductance and resistance
Arteries conduct blood and help maintain pressure within the vascular system.
What is the sequence of blood vessels from arteries to veins?
Arteries –> arterioles –> capillaries –> venules –> veins
This sequence illustrates the progression of blood flow through the vascular system.
What is the primary function of veins?
Capacitance and reservoir
Veins have a thinner media layer and serve as a reservoir for blood volume.
What are erythrocytes commonly known as?
Red blood cells
Erythrocytes are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
What structural feature of veins prevents the backflow of deoxygenated blood?
Valves
Valves ensure proper venous return to the heart by preventing backflow.
What are the layers of blood vessel walls?
Intima, media, adventitia
Each layer serves specific structural and functional roles in the blood vessels.
What type of epithelium is found in the intima layer of blood vessels?
Simple squamous epithelium
This type of epithelium facilitates smooth blood flow.
Where does gas exchange occur in the circulatory system?
In the capillaries
Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels and are the site for gas exchange.
What drives the movement of gases in the capillaries?
Pressure and concentration gradients
Gases move from areas of high concentration to low concentration, aided by pressure differences.
What is the function of systemic circulation?
Transport oxygenated blood to the body
Systemic circulation carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to all body tissues.
What distinguishes pulmonary circulation?
Short circuit from the heart to the lungs
Pulmonary circulation is responsible for oxygenating blood in the lungs.
What is the starting point of pulmonary circulation?
Right atrium
Blood begins its journey to the lungs from the right atrium of the heart.
What is the function of the portal circulation?
Circulation between two capillary beds
Portal circulation typically refers to the hepatic portal vein, connecting the gastrointestinal tract and liver.
What major vein is associated with the portal circulation?
Hepatic portal vein
This vein carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver.
