Lesson 2: Path of Blood (Arteries, Capillaries and Veins)

What is the primary function of arteries?

To carry blood away from the heart.

What structural feature differentiates arteries from veins?

Arteries have a thicker middle layer compared to veins.

What is unique about the pressure in arteries?

They operate under very high pressure.

What is the characteristic diffusion process in arteries?

Very little diffusion of substances occurs.

What is the smallest blood vessel that allows for nutrient and gas exchange?

Capillaries.

What is the pressure level in capillaries?

Capillaries have the lowest pressure.

How are nutrients and gases exchanged in capillaries?

Nutrients move in and out while oxygen diffuses out of blood and carbon dioxide diffuses into blood.

What is a key structural difference between veins and arteries?

Veins have a thinner middle layer and can collapse.

What prevents backflow of blood in veins?

One-way valves.

What constitutes blood plasma?

The fluid portion of blood, consisting of 55% of blood volume, mainly composed of water and proteins.

What are the three main types of blood cells?

Red Blood Cells, White Blood Cells, and Platelets.

What is the primary function of red blood cells?

To carry oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from cells.

What role do platelets play in the circulatory system?

They play a key role in blood clotting to prevent excessive blood loss.

What is pulmonary circulation?

The movement of blood from the heart to the lungs and back to the heart.

Describe systemic circulation.

It transports oxygenated blood from the heart to tissues and returns deoxygenated blood back to the heart.

What is cardiac circulation?

The movement of blood through the heart tissues.

What is the first step in the blood clotting process?

The blood vessel is broken, releasing chemicals that attract platelets.

What does thromboplastin produce in the clotting process?

Thrombin when it reacts with prothrombin in the presence of calcium ions.

What final structure is formed during the blood clotting process?

A fibrous mesh of fibrin that solidifies to form a clot.