Structure and Function of Capillaries

Question 1

What is a capillary bed?

Answer 1

= network of cappilaries
= where substances are exhange between blood and body cells
= branching allows increased surface area for exchange of materials

Question 2

What are the structure of a cappilaries?

Answer 2

= maximises diffusion of oxygen
= thin wall: 1 cell thick, single layer of endotheloial cells
= thin membrane: basement membrane
= short diffusion pathway between blood and body cells

lumen: slightly greater than the diameter of a red blood cell
= when red blood cells pass through the lumen of the cappilar, pressed agaisnt the capillary wall
= reduces didtsnce for oxygen

Question 3

How do red blood cells travel through capillaries?

Answer 3

= single file order
= move slowly
= increases time for diffusing in and out of capillaries
=

Question 4

What are the small gaps between endothelial cells called?

Answer 4

= allow fluid to pass oit the blood- tissue flui
= provides gluvose and amino acids