Describe the structural differences between arteries, veins and capillaries and link to their function

Arteries - Small lumen, large amount of smooth muscleSmall lumen provides increased blood pressure for blood to flow all across body - smooth muscle provides necessary force to push blood across body
Veins - Large lumen, contain valvesLarge lumen allows high volume of blood to return to heart, valves help to prevent backflow
Capillaries - 1 endothelial cell thickThinness of capillaries allow for short diffusion distance of substances to and from surrounding tissue

Answered by Muhammad S. Biology tutor

1943 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a synapse and how is information passed through it?


How do alveoli create a surface for efficient gas exchange?


How do enzymes lower the activation energy of reactions?


How is the cardiac cycle regulated by the heart itself?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences