Asked by Jordan Newman on Apr 26, 2024
Verified
Arteries can constrict or dilate as needed because of the smooth muscle found in the ________.
A) tunica intima
B) tunica media
C) tunica adventitia
D) tunica externa
E) tunica interna
Tunica Media
The middle layer of the wall of a blood vessel, composed primarily of smooth muscle and elastic tissue.
Smooth Muscle
Involuntary, non-striated muscle found in the walls of internal organs and blood vessels, controlled by the autonomic nervous system.
Arteries
Blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood away from the heart to the body's tissues.
- Understand the structure and functions of different layers of blood vessel walls.
Verified Answer
FM
Fabio MassaMay 01, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
The tunica media is the middle layer of the walls of arteries and veins, and it contains smooth muscle and elastic fibers. This layer is responsible for the ability of arteries to constrict or dilate, thereby regulating blood pressure and flow.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the structure and functions of different layers of blood vessel walls.