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

17. The Blood

Erythrocytes: Hemoglobin

Anatomy & Physiology

17. The Blood

Erythrocytes: Hemoglobin

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1:44 minutes

Problem 2

Textbook Question

Total peripheral resistance:
a. is inversely proportional to the length of the vascular bed
b. increases in anemia
c. decreases in polycythemia
d. is inversely related to the diameter of the arterioles

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of Total Peripheral Resistance (TPR): TPR refers to the resistance to blood flow in the systemic circulation. It is influenced by factors such as blood vessel diameter, blood viscosity, and the length of the vascular bed.

Analyze the relationship between TPR and the length of the vascular bed: TPR is directly proportional to the length of the vascular bed, meaning that as the length increases, resistance increases. Therefore, option 'a' is incorrect.

Examine the effect of anemia on TPR: Anemia reduces blood viscosity due to a lower concentration of red blood cells, which decreases resistance. Thus, option 'b' is incorrect.

Evaluate the impact of polycythemia on TPR: Polycythemia increases blood viscosity due to a higher concentration of red blood cells, which increases resistance. Therefore, option 'c' is incorrect.

Understand the relationship between TPR and the diameter of arterioles: TPR is inversely proportional to the fourth power of the radius of the arterioles, as described by Poiseuille's law. A smaller diameter results in higher resistance, making option 'd' correct.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Total Peripheral Resistance (TPR)

Total Peripheral Resistance refers to the resistance to blood flow offered by all of the systemic vasculature, excluding the pulmonary circulation. It is a critical factor in determining blood pressure and is influenced by the diameter of blood vessels, blood viscosity, and the overall length of the vascular system.

Vascular Bed Length and Resistance

The length of the vascular bed plays a significant role in total peripheral resistance. According to Poiseuille's law, resistance is directly proportional to the length of the vessel; thus, longer vessels increase resistance, while shorter vessels decrease it. This relationship is crucial for understanding how changes in vascular structure can affect blood flow.

Arteriolar Diameter and Resistance

The diameter of arterioles is inversely related to total peripheral resistance. When arterioles dilate (increase in diameter), resistance decreases, allowing for greater blood flow. Conversely, constriction of arterioles increases resistance, which can elevate blood pressure. This concept is essential for understanding the regulation of blood flow and pressure in the circulatory system.