Blood flow in the capillaries is
A) slower because there are more capillaries and they have a greater total cross-sectional area than arterioles.
B) faster because they are smaller and blood must speed up to get through.
C) the same speed as in the arteries and veins since they are the input and output points.
D) highly variable due to different tissues, but must average the same as speeds in arteries and the veins.
E) slower than in other blood vessels because of the presence of valves.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Capillaries have a greater total cross-sectional area than arterioles, which leads to slower blood flow. This slower flow allows for the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products between the blood and surrounding tissues.

Blood Flow in the Capillaries Is