Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

19. The Blood Vessels

Introduction to Blood Vessels

Anatomy & Physiology

19. The Blood Vessels

Introduction to Blood Vessels

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following best describes the influence of blood vessel diameter on peripheral resistance?

A small decrease in vessel diameter greatly increases peripheral resistance.

A small decrease in vessel diameter slightly decreases peripheral resistance.

An increase in vessel diameter increases peripheral resistance.

Blood vessel diameter has no effect on peripheral resistance.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of peripheral resistance: Peripheral resistance refers to the resistance to blood flow in the circulatory system, primarily influenced by the diameter of blood vessels, blood viscosity, and vessel length.

Recall the relationship between vessel diameter and resistance: According to Poiseuille's Law, resistance is inversely proportional to the fourth power of the radius of the blood vessel. This means even a small change in vessel diameter can have a significant impact on resistance.

Analyze the effect of a decrease in vessel diameter: When the diameter of a blood vessel decreases, the radius becomes smaller, leading to a dramatic increase in resistance due to the inverse fourth power relationship.

Consider the physiological implications: Increased peripheral resistance due to smaller vessel diameter can lead to higher blood pressure and reduced blood flow to tissues, which is critical in understanding cardiovascular health.

Evaluate the options provided: Based on the principles of Poiseuille's Law and the physiological effects, identify the correct statement that aligns with the significant increase in resistance caused by a small decrease in vessel diameter.