L5 - Blood Composition and Pressure

Blood Composition

Components include plasma, erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets.

Blood Clotting

Process preventing excessive bleeding via coagulation.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Erythrocyte Life Cycle

Life span of about 120 days in circulation.

Extrinsic Pathway

Faster clotting response using external factors.

Intrinsic Pathway

Slower clotting response using internal blood factors.

Blood Pressure

Force exerted by circulating blood on vessel walls.

Flow = Pressure

Blood flow is directly proportional to blood pressure.

Compliance

Ability of blood vessels to expand with pressure.

Cardiac Output

Volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute.

Vessel Resistance

Opposition to blood flow within blood vessels.

Vessel Diameter

Wider vessels reduce resistance, increasing blood flow.

Baroreceptor Control

Regulation of blood pressure via baroreceptors detecting stretch.

Long-term Regulation

Adjustments in blood pressure over extended periods.