Blood Vessel Structure and Function

This lecture covers the structure and function of blood vessels, including veins, arteries, and capillaries. It explains how blood vessels work with the lymphatic system to circulate fluids and details the three layers of vessel walls: tunica intima, tunica media, and tunica externa. The lecture also highlights the unique structure of capillaries and the role of each layer in maintaining blood flow and pressure.

What is the primary function of blood vessels in the circulatory system?

• To circulate fluids throughout the body

• To produce blood cells

• To store oxygen

• To deliver nutrients to the heart

Which type of blood vessel carries blood toward the heart?

• Capillaries

• Veins

• Lymphatic vessels

• Arteries

What is unique about the blood in pulmonary circulation?

• It is the only deoxygenated blood carried by arteries

• It is the only oxygenated blood carried by veins

• It is always deoxygenated

• It is always oxygenated

What is the central blood-containing space in a blood vessel called?

• Basal lamina

• Lumen

• Endothelium

• Tunica intima

Which layer of blood vessels is in direct contact with blood?

• Tunica media

• Tunica externa

• Tunica intima

• Basal lamina

What type of cells make up the endothelium of the tunica intima?

• Columnar epithelial cells

• Simple squamous epithelial cells

• Cuboidal epithelial cells

• Stratified squamous epithelial cells

What is the primary function of the tunica media?

• To protect and reinforce the vessel wall

• To control vasoconstriction and vasodilation

• To provide a slick surface for blood flow

• To anchor the vessel to surrounding structures

What is the tunica externa also known as?

• Basal lamina

• Tunica adventitia

• Tunica media

• Tunica intima

What is the role of the vasa vasorum?

• To reduce friction in blood flow

• To carry blood away from the heart

• To nourish the outermost layer of large blood vessels

• To control blood pressure

Which layer of blood vessels contains loose collagen fibers?

• Tunica externa

• Tunica media

• Tunica intima

• Endothelium