OrganisationKey Facts
Blood Vessels: Structure and Function
Part of The Heart and Circulation — GCSE Biology
This key facts covers Blood Vessels: Structure and Function within The Heart and Circulation for GCSE Biology. Heart structure, cardiac cycle, blood vessels, double circulation, heart rate control, and cardiovascular health It is section 6 of 14 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 6 of 14
Practice
20 questions
Recall
25 flashcards
Blood Vessels: Structure and Function
| Feature | Arteries | Veins | Capillaries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Function | Carry blood away from heart | Carry blood to heart | Allow exchange of materials |
| Pressure | High (systolic/diastolic) | Low (steady flow) | Very low |
| Wall Thickness | Thick muscular walls | Thin walls | One cell thick |
| Valves | Only at heart exit | Many valves throughout | None |
| Blood Type | Usually oxygenated* | Usually deoxygenated* | Changes during exchange |
*Exception: Pulmonary artery carries deoxygenated blood, pulmonary veins carry oxygenated blood