Which of the following statement is correct regarding blood vessels?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Arteries are the major blood vessels of the body, and their primary function is to transport oxygenated (pure) blood from the heart to all the tissues and organs of the body. Since blood flows under high pressure after being pumped from the heart, the walls of arteries are thick and elastic to withstand this pressure. As an exception, the 'Pulmonary Artery' is the only artery that carries deoxygenated (impure) blood from the heart to the lungs.
Important Points:
Veins: These collect deoxygenated blood from various organs of the body and carry it back to the heart. Blood pressure is lower in veins, and they contain valves to prevent the backflow of blood. (Therefore, Option 2 is incorrect).
Capillaries: Upon reaching the organs, arteries branch out into even smaller tubules known as capillaries. These are the smallest blood vessels, with walls that are only one cell thick. It is at this level that the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products takes place between the blood and the cells. (Therefore, Options 3 and 4 are incorrect).
Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: Which is the largest artery in the body?
Answer: The Aorta.
Question: Which vein carries oxygenated (pure) blood from the lungs to the heart?
Answer: The Pulmonary Vein.
Question: Which instrument is used to measure blood pressure?
Answer: Sphygmomanometer.