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The three main types of blood vessels are arteries, capillaries and veins - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 7 - 2023
Question 7
The three main types of blood vessels are arteries, capillaries and veins. (a) The diagram shows cross sections through two of these blood vessels. Blood vessel X ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The three main types of blood vessels are arteries, capillaries and veins - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 7 - 2023
Step 1
Blood vessel X is an artery and Y is a vein. Describe one feature shown in the diagram that confirms this.
Answer
Blood vessel X has a thicker muscle/connective tissue layer compared to blood vessel Y, which indicates that it is an artery. This structural difference supports its function of handling higher pressure as it carries blood away from the heart.
Step 2
Step 3
Describe the exchange of materials between blood plasma in capillaries and body cells.
Answer
The exchange of materials occurs through pressure filtration, where plasma passes through capillary walls. This leads to the formation of tissue fluid, which surrounds the cells. Nutrients like glucose and oxygen diffuse into the cells, while waste products such as carbon dioxide move out of the cells. Additionally, excess tissue fluid is absorbed back into the blood or taken away by lymphatic vessels.