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1. Describe the three layers that typically form the wall of a blood vessel, and

ID: 71754 • Letter: 1

Question

1. Describe the three layers that typically form the wall of a blood vessel, and state the function of each. 2. Define vasoconstriction and vasodilation. 3. Compare and contrast the structure and function of the three types of arteries. 4. Describe the structure and function of a capillary bed. 5. Describe the structure and function of veins, and explain how veins differ from arteries. 6. Explain the importance of vascular anastomoses. 7. Define blood flow, blood pressure, and resistance, and explain the relationships among these factors. 8. Describe how blood pressure differs in the arteries, capillaries, and veins. 9. List and explain the factors that influence blood pressure, and describe how blood pressure is regulated. 10. Define hypertension. Describe its manifestations and consequences. 11. Explain how blood flow through tissues is regulated in general and in specific organs. 12. Outline factors involved in capillary exchange and bulk flow, and explain the significance of each. 13. Trace the pathway of blood through the pulmonary circuit, and state the importance of this special circulation. 14. Describe the general functions of the systemic circuit. 15. Name and give the location of the major arteries and veins in the systemic circulation. 16. Describe the structure and special function of the hepatic portal system.

Possible essay questions 1. Discuss the physiological bases for the complications of hyper- or hypotension. 2. Examine the significance of proper hydration in maintaining normal blood flow. 3. Discuss why some coronary bypass surgeries have to be repeated. 4. Explain how an artery loses its elasticity. 5. In terms of the mechanics of blood flow, discuss why a pulse is evident on the arterial side but not the venous side of circulation. 6. Describe the factors that retard venous return. 7. Explain why water and dissolved solutes leave the bloodstream at the arteriole end of the capillary bed and enter the bloodstream at the venous end. 8. Discuss why the elasticity of the large arteries is so important (or why arteriosclerosis is such a threat). 9. Discuss the conditions that exist to cause arterial anastomoses to form in damaged or deprived tissues.

Explanation / Answer

1. Describe the three layers that typically form the wall of a blood vessel, and state the function of each.

The three layers that typically form the wall of a blood vessel are tunica intima, tunica mediais, and tunica externa. Tunica intima is the innermost layer and is in close contact with the blood in the lumen. Its function is to line the lumen of all vessels. Tunica mediais is the mostly circularly arranged smooth muscle and is the bulkiest layer. The function of this layer is to regulate circulatory dynamics. Tunica externa is the outermost layer and its main function is to protect and reinforce the vessel, and to anchor it to its surrounding structures.

2. Define vasoconstriction and vasodilation.

Reduction in the diameter of lumen due to the contraction of tunica mediais is called vasoconstriction. Increase in the diameter of lumen due to relaxation of tunica mediais is called vasodilation.

3. Compare and contrast the structure and function of the three types of arteries.

The three types of arteries are elastic arteries, muscular arteries, and arterioles. Elastic arteries act as pressure reservoirs, expanding and recoiling as blood is ejected from the heart. Muscular arteries have the thickest tunica media of all vessels. Arterioles are the smallest of all arteries.

4. Describe the structure and function of a capillary bed.

Capillary bed consists of two types of vessels namely true capillaries and short vessels. True capillaries branch from arterioles and provide exchange between cells and the blood. Short vessels directly connect the arterioles to the venules.

5. Describe the structure and function of veins, and explain how veins differ from arteries.

Veins are also made up of three distinct layers, but they have large lumen as compared to arteries. Veins accommodate large volume of blood due to their large lumen and thin walls.

6. Explain the importance of vascular anastomoses.

Vascular anastomoses are abundant in the regions where active body movements may hinder blood flow through one channel.

7. Define blood flow, blood pressure, and resistance, and explain the relationships among these factors.

The volume of blood flowing through a vessel in a given period of time is called blood flow. The force exerted by the blood on vessel wall is called blood pressure. The amount of friction blood encounters as it passes through the vessels is called resistance.