Blood Vessel Types and Functions
The circulatory system relies on three main types of blood vessels, each with specific roles and characteristics.
Definition: Blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the body are called arteries, featuring thick muscular walls and high blood pressure.
Example: Capillaries function by facilitating the exchange of nutrients and oxygen between blood and surrounding tissues, with walls just one cell thick.
Highlight: Veins contain special valves to prevent blood from flowing backward, ensuring efficient return to the heart.
