Our Cardiovascular system is formed by the heart, responsible for pumping the blood, and by blood vessels that ensure the transport of blood throughout the body. Blood vessels can be classified into three basic types, which we will know below:
→ arteries
It is common to hear that arteries are the blood vessels responsible for carrying arterial blood (oxygen-rich blood). However, the pulmonary artery is responsible for transporting blood rich in carbon dioxide, also called venous, so this is not the best definition.
Arteries can best be defined as a group of blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to all parts of the body. This means that every blood vessel that leaves the heart and goes into the body is called an artery. Its primary function, therefore, is to ensure that the body's cells get nutrients and oxygen. In addition, they ensure that blood rich in carbon dioxide is taken to the lungs for oxygenation.
Arteries differ from other vessels in that they have a stronger and more elastic wall. This is because they carry blood that puts a lot of pressure on the wall. Thin walls could result in vessel disruption.
Arteries have strong walls. Capillaries have very thin walls. In veins, it is possible to observe valves
→ veins
The term vein was previously associated with the transport of venous blood, however, the pulmonary vein carries oxygen-rich blood. Therefore, claiming that the vein carries only one type of blood is untrue.
Veins can be more precisely defined as blood vessels that reach the heart carrying blood from the body. The veins ensure that blood rich in carbon dioxide is taken to the heart for further oxygenation and they also ensure that oxygenated blood returns to this organ so that it can be pumped to the entire body.
The walls of the veins, when compared to those of the arteries, are relatively thinner. In addition, the veins, as they carry blood with low pressure, have valves that prevent blood reflux and ensure the flow in the correct direction.
→ capillaries
Blood capillaries are the finest blood vessels in our cardiovascular system. Its wall is formed by few cells, which facilitates gas exchange between tissue and blood.
CURIOSITY: VDid you know that the vessels of the circulatory system form a network of approximately 100,000 kilometers?
Take the opportunity to check out our video lesson on the subject:
