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In Biology / Senior High School | 2025-07-24

Which blood vessels are responsible for the exchange of gases and nutrients at the cellular level?
A. Arteries
B. Veins
C. Capillaries
D. Lymph vessels

Asked by Ralph5404

Answer (1)

The answer is C. CapillariesCapillaries are the smallest and thinnest blood vessels in the circulatory system, and they are the primary site for exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between the blood and surrounding tissues. These vessels connect arterioles (small branches of arteries) to venules (small veins) and form vast networks called capillary beds in nearly every tissue of the body.Capillaries are only one cell thick, composed of endothelial cells, which allows rapid diffusion of substances:Oxygen and nutrients from the blood diffuse into body cells.Carbon dioxide and metabolic waste from cells diffuse into the blood for removal.This exchange occurs due to concentration gradients, and the thin walls of capillaries allow substances to move easily across them.Other key features:Capillaries are so narrow that red blood cells pass through in single file, which maximizes contact with the wall for efficient gas exchange.Capillaries also allow immune cells to pass through and access tissues when needed.To contrast:Arteries carry blood away from the heart under high pressure but do not allow exchange.Veins return blood to the heart and carry waste-rich blood but don’t exchange substances either.Lymph vessels transport lymph, not blood, and are part of the immune system.Diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and atherosclerosis can damage capillaries and reduce their ability to function. In anatomy, learning about capillaries helps students understand how oxygen reaches every part of the body and why blood circulation is critical for tissue survival.

Answered by dapperdazzle | 2025-07-25