Functions of Blood and Characterization of Blood Vessels

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the various functions of blood, the structural differences between arteries, veins, and capillaries, and the specific hepatic vessels involved in blood circulation.

Oxyhaemoglobin

The substance formed when haemoglobin in RBC combines readily with oxygen in the lungs.

$CO_2$ transport

Carbon dioxide produced by respiration dissolves into the intestinal fluid before it diffuses into the blood to be transported to the lungs.

Phagocytosis

The process used for the removal of pathogens and bacteria from the blood.

Neutralisation

A function of antibodies where they bind with toxins released by phagocytes to block them from affecting body cells.

Agglutination

The process where antibodies bind with bacteria to form clumping, making them easier for phagocytes to ingest.

Fibrin threads

Insoluble networks that trap blood cells to enable the formation of blood clots.

Heparin

A substance that prevents the formation of fibrin, thereby reducing blood clotting.

Artery Walls

Thick walls containing smooth muscles and elastic fibre that stretch and recoil by systole and diastole.

Artery Lumen

A narrow, cylindrical opening that helps maintain high blood pressure.

Vein Lumen

A wider opening compared to arteries that allows blood to flow more easily.

Valves

Structures present in veins designed to prevent the backflow of blood.

Hepatic portal vein

The vessel that brings nutrient-rich blood from the digestive system to the liver.

Hepatic artery

The vessel that brings oxygenated blood from the heart to the liver.

Hepatic vein

The vessel that brings blood away from the liver and back to the heart via the vena cava.

Capillaries

The site of exchange of materials between blood and tissue fluid, having walls made of a single layer of epithelial cells.

Capillary Lumen

A very narrow space, approximately the size of an RBC, which forces blood cells to travel in a single file.