Question

Describe the similarities and differences between an artery and a vein in terms of both structure and function.

Answer 1

Arteries and veins are blood vessels that carries the blood from the heart and to the heart respectively.Arteries are thicker than the veins.This thickness is to accomodate pulsatile flow.These vessels have 3 layers.They are Tunica intima,Tunica media,Tunica adventitia.Arteries withstand High pressure,veins withstand low pressure.Arteries have a well developed medial layer,smooth muscle cells are arranged concentrically.Veins have less developed medial layer and it permits greater capacitance.veins have valves.