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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about lymph transport is correct?
A
Lymph is transported through the lymphatic vessels primarily by the contraction of surrounding skeletal muscles.
B
Lymph transport is independent of body movement and relies solely on gravity.
C
Lymph is pumped by a dedicated muscular organ similar to the heart.
D
Lymphatic vessels contain valves that prevent the backflow of blood.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the lymphatic system's role in the body. The lymphatic system is responsible for transporting lymph, a fluid containing white blood cells, proteins, and waste products, back to the bloodstream. It does not have a central pump like the heart in the circulatory system.
Step 2: Analyze the first statement: 'Lymph is transported through the lymphatic vessels primarily by the contraction of surrounding skeletal muscles.' This is correct because lymphatic vessels rely on the contraction of nearby skeletal muscles to push lymph through the vessels. This process is similar to how veins return blood to the heart.
Step 3: Evaluate the second statement: 'Lymph transport is independent of body movement and relies solely on gravity.' This is incorrect because lymph transport is highly dependent on body movement, such as muscle contractions, and does not rely solely on gravity.
Step 4: Assess the third statement: 'Lymph is pumped by a dedicated muscular organ similar to the heart.' This is incorrect because the lymphatic system does not have a dedicated pump like the heart. Instead, it relies on external forces like skeletal muscle contractions and respiratory movements.
Step 5: Examine the fourth statement: 'Lymphatic vessels contain valves that prevent the backflow of blood.' This is partially incorrect because lymphatic vessels do contain valves, but their purpose is to prevent the backflow of lymph, not blood. Blood is transported in the circulatory system, not the lymphatic system.