Describe the structural differences between arteries, veins and capillaries and link to their function

Arteries - Small lumen, large amount of smooth muscleSmall lumen provides increased blood pressure for blood to flow all across body - smooth muscle provides necessary force to push blood across body
Veins - Large lumen, contain valvesLarge lumen allows high volume of blood to return to heart, valves help to prevent backflow
Capillaries - 1 endothelial cell thickThinness of capillaries allow for short diffusion distance of substances to and from surrounding tissue

MS
Answered by Muhammad S. Biology tutor

2270 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why do some mutations to DNA structure not result in a change of the produced polypeptide?


What conditions are needed for evolution by natural selection to arise?


Why does a plant not take in all of the light energy that reaches their leaves?


Which body organ has both an exocrine and endocrine function?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning