In the circulatory system, blood flows in what sequence?

In the circulatory system, blood flows in the sequence of arteries, capillaries, and veins. This sequence reflects the physiological pathway of blood as it moves through the body.

Starting with arteries, blood is pumped from the heart under high pressure into larger arteries, which branch into smaller arterioles and then into capillaries. Arteries are responsible for carrying oxygenated blood (with the exception of the pulmonary arteries) away from the heart to the tissues of the body.

Once blood reaches the capillaries, it enters a network of tiny blood vessels where the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste occurs. This is where oxygen diffuses from the blood into the tissues, and carbon dioxide travels from the tissues into the blood.

After exchanging nutrients and gases, the now deoxygenated blood moves from capillaries into venules, which coalesce into larger veins. Veins carry the deoxygenated blood back to the heart. They operate under lower pressure compared to arteries and often have valves to prevent backflow, ensuring that blood returns to the heart efficiently.

Understanding this correct sequence is crucial for grasping the overall function of the circulatory system and the role each type of blood vessel plays in maintaining homeostasis and delivering essential substances