Blood Flows Rapidly Within the Arterial System but Slows Dramatically

question 61

Multiple Choice

Blood flows rapidly within the arterial system but slows dramatically as it enters the capillaries. What is the benefit of having blood move slowly through the capillaries?

• A)It enables the capillaries to conserve the blood's pressure gradient so that enough pressure remains to return the blood to the heart.
• B)It provides the time needed for white blood cells to capture any bloodborne pathogens that might be present.
• C)It ensures that the blood has enough time to exchange material with the surrounding cells.
• D)It decreases the probability of frictional scarring on the capillary wall and the subsequent development of atherosclerosis.